Bill > HB1118

This bill mandates that the Maryland Medical Assistance Program and certain private health insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and health maintenance organizations (collectively referred to as "carriers") must provide coverage for screening for perinatal behavioral health conditions, which are defined as mental or behavioral health issues occurring during pregnancy or within one year after pregnancy concludes, including conditions like postpartum depression. This coverage is required at specific well-child visits within the first year of a child's life, as determined by the healthcare provider. The bill also directs the Maryland Department of Health to identify appropriate screening tools and to help healthcare providers access resources and referral services for individuals identified with these conditions. Additionally, it requires healthcare providers who manage perinatal care to provide patients with information on perinatal behavioral health conditions and mandates that healthcare professionals who evaluate and manage perinatal care complete continuing education on these conditions. The bill also includes provisions for a study by the Maryland Health Care Commission on the impact of requiring this coverage and prohibiting certain cost-sharing measures, with a report to be submitted to legislative committees.