Data collection and public health surveillance provide vital information to Oregon’s policy makers and health planners. The resulting legislation, partnerships, and policy initiatives are strengthening maternal mental health systems and services around the state.
Oregon Perinatal Mental Health Data
Oregon’s Maternal Mental Health Legislation
House Bill 2666: Maternal Mental Health Work Group
HB 2666 created a work group on Maternal Mental Health disorders (prenatal through one year postpartum). The work group’s charge was to identify vulnerable populations and develop recommendations for effective and accessible strategies to improve maternal mental health in Oregon. The group was appointed by the DHS Director and submitted a report with findings and recommendations to the Legislative Assembly September 15, 2010.
House Bill 3625: Maternal Mental Health Month
HB 3625 declares May of each year to be Maternal Mental Health Month in Oregon. Maternal Mental Health Month activities are coordinated by Postpartum Support International of Oregon.
House Bill 2235: Maternal Mental Health Patient and Provider Education Program
The Patient and Provider Education Program was created by the passage of House Bill 2235 in July 2011. The goal of the program is to identify and address maternal mental health disorders (including prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety) and to prevent the associated long-term negative outcomes from the disorders for women, children, and families. The program’s specific charge is to provide information about perinatal depression and anxiety to health care providers who serve pregnant and postpartum patients, including patients who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy or infant. Click here to view Oregon’s patient and provider education materials.
Oregon Maternal Mental Health Policy Initiatives