The bill would amend Health and Safety Code Chapter 34 to require the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to evaluate options for reducing maternal mortality, and to submit a written report that summarizes the Health and Human Services Commission's efforts to reduce the incidence of maternal mortality. The bill would require HHSC to apply for federal funding to screen and treat postpartum depression. The bill would also continue the Maternal Morbidity Task Force through December 31, 2023.
The bill as amended would require for the Task Force to submit a report regarding women receiving mental health services for postpartum depression. The Task Force may receive assistance from the Texas Medical Board, Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners, Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists, Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, and Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors in compiling the report, and any of the agencies listed would be subject to review by the Sunset Advisory Committee. The bill as amended would require the Task Force to study health conditions affecting certain populations, and best practices that have reduced maternal mortality and morbidity rates in other states.
The bill would take effect September 1, 2017.
Based on LBB's analysis of the Health and Human Services Commission, Department of State Health Services, Texas Medical Board, Board of Examiners of Psychologists, and the Sunset Advisory Committee, it is assumed that duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the provisions of the bill could be accomplished by utilizing existing resources.
No fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.