CA AB1936

Requires health care service plans to conduct at least one maternal mental health screening during pregnancy and at least one additional screening during the first six weeks postpartum, with additional screenings if medically necessary and clinically appropriate.

Requires health insurers to develop maternal mental health programs with the same screening requirements: one prenatal screening, one postpartum screening within six weeks, and additional postpartum screenings as determined medically necessary.

Defines "maternal mental health" as mental health conditions occurring during pregnancy or postpartum period, including but not limited to postpartum depression.

Encourages but does not mandate health plans and insurers to cover doulas, provide provider training opportunities, and educate enrollees about maternal mental health programs.

Applies to Medi-Cal managed care plans only if the State Department of Health Care Services obtains necessary federal approvals and federal financial participation is available.