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HB 3917

Relating to coverage for maternal depression screenings under Medicaid and the child health plan program.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Ray Lopez and 1 co-sponsor

HB 3917 requires Texas Medicaid and CHIP to cover maternal depression screenings with no patient cost-sharing for pregnant and postpartum women to improve mental health access.

Referred to Human Services
#health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #health--children'sinsurance(i0388) #humanservices--medicalassistance(i0905) #medicaid(s4885) #mentalhealth&substanceabuse(i0019)
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Bill Summary · HB 3917

Legislative bill overview

HB 3917 would require Medicaid and the Texas Child Health Plan Program (CHIP) to cover maternal depression screenings without cost-sharing (no copays or deductibles) for eligible pregnant women and postpartum women. The bill aims to improve access to mental health screening during critical perinatal periods by removing financial barriers to detection and early intervention.

Why is this important

Maternal depression affects 1 in 5 postpartum women and can have serious consequences for both mother and child, including increased risk of suicide, poor bonding, and developmental delays in infants. Early screening is evidence-based and cost-effective, yet financial barriers and stigma prevent many low-income women from seeking care. This directly impacts vulnerable populations relying on Medicaid and CHIP coverage.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Opponents may argue about fiscal impact to state Medicaid budget, though screening costs are typically lower than treatment costs for untreated depression
  • Scope of coverage: Questions about which screening tools qualify, frequency of screening, and whether follow-up care is covered under separate provisions
  • Implementation details: Unclear whether this applies only to OB/GYN providers or all primary care settings, and coordination with mental health providers for positive screens

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

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