CA AB577

Requires health care service plans and health insurers to continue coverage for maternal mental health conditions with written documentation of diagnosis from a treating provider for up to 12 months from diagnosis or end of pregnancy, whichever is later.

Defines "maternal mental health condition" as a mental health condition affecting a woman during pregnancy, peripartum, postpartum, or arising during these periods up to one year after delivery.

Expands existing continuity of care requirements that already apply to acute conditions, serious chronic conditions, pregnancies, terminal illnesses, newborn care, and scheduled surgeries.

Applies to both newly covered enrollees whose prior coverage was terminated by plan withdrawal from a market and to existing enrollees experiencing provider termination or using nonparticipating providers.

Maintains existing protections including cost-sharing requirements matching current contracted provider rates and exceptions for providers terminated for medical disciplinary causes or fraud.