Bill > HB1747

This bill establishes several programs to improve mental health support for pregnant and postpartum individuals. The Insurance Department will create a program to reimburse Medicaid recipients for one mental health screening during each trimester of pregnancy and will reimburse healthcare providers for time spent advising patients about resources after diagnosing a perinatal mental health condition. The Department of Health and Human Services will develop an outreach program to educate mental health providers about perinatal mental health therapy and create an incentive program offering loan reimbursements for providers who become certified in perinatal mental health through a reputable organization. Providers can receive financial reimbursement after documenting two continuous years of employment in perinatal mental health therapy. Additionally, the Insurance Department will review current Medicaid reimbursement rates for therapy and psychiatric medications, with plans to offer higher reimbursement rates for providers certified in perinatal mental health. The bill aims to address gaps in mental health support during pregnancy and the postpartum period by providing financial incentives and educational resources for healthcare providers. The legislation will take effect 60 days after its passage, though the fiscal note indicates that the exact costs are currently indeterminable and would likely be funded through a combination of general and federal Medicaid funds.

Health and Social Services

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=2349&inflect=2