Governor signs postpartum depression bill

Governor Deval Patrick has given final approval to a bill designed to help new mothers struggling with postpartum depression.

The law requires Massachusetts health insurers to submit annual reports on their efforts to screen for postpartum depression.

The legislation also calls on the Department of Public Health to develop regulations and policies to address postpartum depression including creation of public and professional education programs and the use of screening tools.

It also creates a special commission to come up with policy recommendations to prevent, detect and treat postpartum depression.

The bill received final approval from the Legislature on Aug. 10.