Tag: postpartum

Common Ground: Statewide effort tackles postpartum depression and perinatal mood disorders

Member News

Lauren LaPineCommon Ground published a story Dec. 9 on the behavioral health collaborative that the MHA has launched to address postpartum depression and perinatal mood disorders.

Lauren LaPine-Ray, vice president, policy and rural health, MHA, is quoted in the story discussing the MHA’s role in convening the collaborative and the need to address these issues.

“For mothers, depression rates continue to increase,” said LaPine-Ray. “Making sure we have real support for behavioral-health services in this state is somewhere we urgently need to see change and investment.”

The story also highlights collaborative partners, including Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, with their Mother & Baby Day perinatal mood disorder program, and Michigan State University’s ROSE (Reach Out, Stay, Strong, Essentials) postpartum depression prevention program.

Members with any questions regarding media requests should contact John Karasinski at the MHA.

MHA Supports Expanded Medicaid Coverage for Postpartum Mental Health Screenings

Member News

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.

MDHHS Releases Medicaid Doula Services Proposed Policy

Member News

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently released a proposed policy updating Medicaid coverage for doula services, effective Oct. 1, 2024. Key updates include increasing the number of covered doula visits to 12 per pregnancy, raising reimbursement rates to $1,500 for labor and delivery support and $100 per prenatal and postpartum visit. Additionally, beneficiaries may qualify for up to six extra visits if more support is needed, based on criteria such as promoting health literacy, emotional support, addressing social determinants of health and more.

These changes aim to improve maternal and infant outcomes, support birth equity and reduce disparities. Doulas provide essential emotional, physical and educational support during pregnancy, leading to better birth outcomes.

Members are encouraged to review and provide feedback on the proposed changes to Kimberly Lorick at LorickK1@michigan.gov. Comments must be submitted by Oct. 31, 2024.

Members with questions may contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.