Bipartisan Bill Aims to Expand Access to Mental Health Services

Strategic Insights -

U.S. Representatives Paul D. Tonko, Brian Fitzpatrick, and U.S. Senator Tina Smith have reintroduced the Medicaid Bump Act, legislation aimed at increasing the federal reimbursement rate for mental and behavioral health care services under Medicaid. The bill would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to define eligible behavioral health services and require annual reports on the impact of increased federal Medicaid reimbursement on service utilization. With the support of 34 organizations, the legislation aims to provide essential care to Americans struggling with mental health issues.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Medicaid Bump Act would increase the federal reimbursement rate for mental and behavioral health care services under Medicaid to 90 percent.
  • The bill would direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to define eligible behavioral health services.
  • Annual reports would be required to assess the impact of increased federal Medicaid reimbursement on service utilization.
  • The legislation aims to address the growing mental health crisis in America by providing comprehensive and affordable mental health services.
  • Support for the bill comes from 34 organizations, including national associations for mental health professionals, patient advocacy groups, and healthcare providers.
  • Key stakeholders include Rep. Paul D. Tonko (D-NY-20), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1), and U.S. Senator Tina Smith (D-MN), who have worked together to address the structural barriers limiting access to care.
  • The Medicaid Bump Act aims to provide targeted federal support to expand state investment, raise provider reimbursement, and build capacity in areas of need.

Statistics:

  • Traditionally, states receive federal reimbursement rates between 50 and 75 percent.
  • The Medicaid Bump Act would increase reimbursement to 90 percent for eligible behavioral health services.
  • 34 organizations support the bill, including national associations and advocacy groups.
  • The bill would require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to direct annual reports on the impact of increased federal Medicaid reimbursement.

Sources:

  • Tonko, Fitzpatrick, Smith Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Mental Health Services
  • Alliance for Rights and Recovery
  • American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness
  • National Association for Behavioral Healthcare
  • National Association of County Behavioral Health and Developmental Disability Directors
  • National Association of School Psychologists
  • National Council for Mental Wellbeing
  • And 27 other organizations listed in the original release.