New York health officials would set separate postpartum psychosis screening guidance

The health commissioner, working with the mental health commissioner, would publish a separate screening process for postpartum psychosis. Postpartum psychosis is described as a mental health emergency after birth that affects a person's sense of reality and needs screening and care separate from general maternal depression. The guidance would include prenatal checks of a person's psychiatric history and that of first-degree family members, including bipolar disorder. It would identify screening tools separate from standard questionnaires for depression after birth. The act would take effect immediately if enacted.

The health commissioner would share information and publish guidance about screening for maternal depression and postpartum psychosis during routine pregnancy and postpartum care. The information and screening guidance cover maternal depression and postpartum psychosis during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The information would include evidence, screening tools, follow-up options, and ways to involve family when appropriate and consistent with patient confidentiality. The guidance would address when and how often to screen, social needs, substance use, follow-up care, and ways to encourage provider participation. The act would take effect immediately if enacted.

The health commissioner would post information about where people can find treatment and support for maternal depression and postpartum psychosis. The information is for people seeking treatment or support for maternal depression or postpartum psychosis. The information would cover mental health professionals, peer support, nonprofit groups, and other community resources. The act would take effect immediately if enacted.