This bill mandates the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Insurance Department to create and manage various programs aimed at addressing perinatal mental health conditions. Specifically, the Insurance Department is required to establish a reimbursement program for eligible pregnant Medicaid recipients to receive one mental health screening during each trimester of their pregnancy, as well as a program to reimburse healthcare providers for time spent advising patients diagnosed with perinatal mental health conditions. Additionally, the bill directs DHHS to implement an outreach program to educate providers and an incentive program offering loan reimbursements for those certified in perinatal mental health therapy.

The bill also includes a provision for the Insurance Department to review current Medicaid reimbursement rates for therapy and psychiatric medications, with the intention of offering higher rates for certified providers. Notably, the bill does not allocate funding or authorize new positions, which may lead to indeterminate state expenditures as DHHS anticipates costs associated with implementing the outreach and incentive programs. The lack of clarity regarding the scope and delivery of these programs may further complicate cost estimates and implementation. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the treatment and support for perinatal mental health conditions through structured programs and financial incentives.