The MHA recently submitted comments to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services in support of the proposal to expand Medicaid coverage for maternal mental health screenings up to 12 months postpartum.
Postpartum depression affects one in eight individuals, with symptoms often appearing months after childbirth. At nine to 10 months postpartum, 7.2% of individuals report depressive symptoms, many for the first time, highlighting the need for extended screening.
The MHA noted the importance of using validated tools like the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and aligning with recommendations from national medical organizations will help identify and treat more cases of postpartum depression. Extending coverage will close care gaps, improve outcomes for families and strengthen maternal and infant health statewide.
Members with questions may contact Lenise Freeman at the MHA.