Bill Requiring Doctors To Screen New Moms For Depression To Go Up For Debate
Many health care providers don't like the legislation, but it has drawn support from women who have struggled with post-partum mental health issues.
KQED:
To Screen Or Not To Screen? Doctors Debate Post Partum Depression Testing
Lawmakers will begin debate next week on a bill that would require doctors to screen new moms for mental health problems – once while they’re pregnant and again, after giving birth. But a lot of doctors don’t like the idea. Many obstetricians and pediatricians are afraid to screen new moms for depression and anxiety. “What are you going to do with those people who screen positive?” said Laura Sirott, an OB/GYN who practices in Pasadena. “Some providers have nowhere to send them.” (Dembosky, 3/5)