WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 411

Health Insurance - Postpartum Depression Screening - Required Coverage and Authorized Cost Sharing

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Jeff Waldstreicher

Maryland bill requires health insurers to cover postpartum depression screening with no patient cost-sharing to improve early detection and maternal mental health outcomes.

Hearing 2/12 at 1:00 p.m.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 411

Legislative bill overview

SB 411 requires health insurance plans in Maryland to cover postpartum depression screening without cost-sharing (copays, coinsurance, or deductibles) for pregnant and postpartum individuals. The bill mandates that these screening services be provided as a covered preventive health service, making mental health evaluation accessible during the perinatal period.

Why is this important

Postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 7 new mothers and can have serious consequences for maternal and infant health if left untreated. By removing financial barriers to screening, the bill aims to increase early detection and intervention, potentially reducing hospitalizations, improving treatment outcomes, and supporting better family health outcomes. This aligns with federal recommendations that postpartum depression screening be part of preventive care.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to insurers and premiums: Insurance companies may argue that mandating free preventive services increases administrative costs and could pressure premium increases for all policyholders, though proponents note preventive care typically reduces downstream costs
  • Scope of "authorized cost sharing": The bill's language on what cost-sharing is "authorized" versus prohibited may create ambiguity about what services are truly free versus what could still carry patient costs
  • Implementation burden: Questions about screening protocols, provider training, and coordination between OB/GYN and mental health providers could complicate rollout across diverse health systems

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.