Healey pushes postpartum mental health screenings after Clancy trial

Driving the news: Healey wants lawmakers to approve $2 million to expand Welcome Family, the state's free home visit program for new parents.

• There would be $250,000 more for MCPAP for Moms, which supports providers treating perinatal mental health and substance use issues.

What they're saying: "My hope is that through the increased attention on this, more people will have both a better understanding of what life is like and what can happen," Healey said at a Tuesday press conference.

• Healey said the trial will lead to more awareness of resources and a continued willingness to talk about postpartum issues.

What's next: The Department of Public Health plans to update regulations widening screening beyond postpartum depression to cover a broader range of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, according to Healey's office.

• The increased program spending needs to be approved by the Legislature.