Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Insurance Department (PID) today announced that the largest health insurers operating in the Commonwealth are taking steps to expand coverage for medications used to treat postpartum depression and related maternal mental health conditions. After working with the Department to expand coverage, all nine largest Pennsylvania health insurers in the individual and small group insurance markets will cover the FDA approved fast-acting postpartum medication for plan year 2026.
“We commend all of these insurers for stepping up to support the health and well-being of Pennsylvania’s mothers,” said Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys. “By expanding coverage to include critical postpartum medication that brings effects in days and can be taken orally, these insurers are removing financial barriers that too often stand between women and the care they need during a vulnerable time. We are glad to see Pennsylvania women will have convenient access to effective postpartum medication.”
Since taking office, Governor Josh Shapiro has prioritized addressing maternal health, and his 2025-2026 budget proposal continues that work with $5 million to fund maternal health initiatives.
Postpartum Depression affects one in eight women and can have serious health consequences for both mothers and infants if left untreated. Symptoms can include intense sadness, anxiety, exhaustion, and difficulty bonding with the newborn – affecting the health and safety of both the mother and child. Without access to timely treatment, the condition can worsen, leading to long-term health consequences. Access to timely and effective treatment is essential to improving maternal health outcomes.
“Postpartum depression not only impacts the well-being of Pennsylvania mothers, but also profoundly affects their families and communities,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen. “The Shapiro Administration is working to implement universal depression screenings for all Pennsylvania mothers during and after pregnancy. Beyond screening, it is critical that mothers diagnosed with depression and other mental health conditions have access to personalized, evidence-based treatment for their conditions.”
Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services oversees Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program, which covers approximately one-third of all births in Pennsylvania. Through Medicaid, families have access to the full scope of medical services coverage, including counseling, screenings, proper prenatal care, and more. Medicaid also provides coverage for antidepressants, including the new drug Zurzuvae (zuranolone) which is indicated for the treatment of postpartum depression.
Data shows that timely postpartum care is associated with lower maternal morbidity and mortality. DHS, therefore, has expanded the Medicaid coverage period for new moms and their child from six weeks to one year after the birth of a child and expanded access to doulas for Medicaid recipients.
“More than half of pregnancy-related deaths occur between one week and one year postpartum, and mental health is a leading underlying cause of these tragic, preventable losses. We know we need to address this crisis and help mothers get the medicine and care they need, and we are proud to work with our colleagues in the Department of Insurance to combat the preventable loss of life experienced by too many women,” said DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh.
Pennsylvanians who have any insurance related questions or have an issue with their insurer or agent may file a complaint with PID by visiting pa.gov/consumer, or by calling 1-866-PA-Complaint.