Bill > HF35

This bill requires health plans in Minnesota to develop a comprehensive maternal mental health program designed to support pregnant and postpartum individuals' mental health. The program must ensure effective care by encouraging healthcare providers to conduct mental health screenings during the perinatal period, following recommendations from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Health plans must adequately reimburse healthcare professionals for services related to these screenings, including diagnosis and treatment coordination. The program also mandates that health plans provide professionals with resources and referrals to specialized behavioral health providers and support networks. Critically, health plans are prohibited from intentionally delaying referrals when clinically indicated, such as when a screening test shows a potential mental health condition or the patient reports suicidal thoughts. The bill applies to all health policies, plans, certificates, and contracts offered or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, and affects various types of health plans including managed care and county-based purchasing plans. This legislation aims to improve mental health support and screening for pregnant and postpartum individuals by establishing standardized requirements across different types of health insurance plans.

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https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0035&ssn=0&y=2025