Referral Options

Diagnosing PPD and treating postpartum mothers with PPD are beyond the scope of the Texas Health Steps policy. However, all Texas Health Steps providers should be equipped to make referrals to local health-care providers and community organizations for further evaluation and to determine a course of treatment. Referral resources may include:

• Mental health clinicians

• The mother's primary care provider

• Obstetricians and gynecologists

• Family physicians

• Community providers

  • Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) provide comprehensive health-care services, including mental health services, to underserved communities. The Resources section includes links to a map that shows the 73 FQHCs currently operating in Texas, with more than 300 sites.

  • Local mental health authorities (LMHA) and local behavioral health authorities (LBHA) provide mental health services across the state. Services are available regardless of the patient’s ability to pay. Appointment availability varies. The Resources section provides more information, including a map showing service areas and a web page listing center addresses and contact information.

• Additional support resources

  • The Perinatal Psychiatry Access Network (PeriPAN) provides clinicians with peer-to-peer telephone consults with mental health experts, as well as referrals and resources. For assistance, providers can call 888-901-2726 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or submit a contact form.

  • The Postpartum Support International Texas Resources Guide lists support groups and services that are available to mothers at no charge. The online service also lists educational opportunities, events, and volunteer opportunities to support women and families. A link to the guide is available in the Resources section.

The Healthy Texas Women program offers women's health and family planning services at no cost to eligible women in Texas, including screening and pharmaceutical treatment for postpartum depression. Women receiving Medicaid for Pregnant Women benefits are automatically enrolled in the Healthy Texas Women program at the end of the Medicaid coverage period. Links to the Healthy Texas Women program and online provider lookup are available in the Resources section.