Bill > S0866

This bill creates new continuing education requirements for health care practitioners focusing on maternal mental health. Specifically, the bill mandates that licensed practitioners in pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and clinical psychology must complete continuing education curriculum covering screening for maternal mental health disorders, understanding the range of these disorders, learning about evidence-based treatment options, and understanding when to consult or refer a patient to a specialist. The curriculum must include guidance on best practices for screening, the variety of maternal mental health disorders, treatment approaches that involve the mother in her treatment plan, and professional consultation protocols. The relevant professional board (or the Department of Health if no specific board exists) will be responsible for periodically updating this curriculum to reflect new research and will accept completion of this curriculum as credit toward professional license renewal requirements. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, giving health care practitioners and regulatory bodies time to prepare for the new educational mandate.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/866