California Assembly Bill AB1175

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/19
• Refer: 3/18/19
• Report Pass: 3/18/19
• Refer: 3/19/19
• Report Pass: 4/1/19
• Refer: 4/2/19
• Report Pass: 4/2/19
• Refer: 4/3/19
• Report Pass: 4/22/19
• Refer: 4/24/19
• Refer: 5/15/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19
• Engrossed: 5/28/19
• Refer: 5/29/19
• Refer: 6/6/19
• Report Pass: 6/24/19
• Refer: 6/24/19
• Report Pass: 7/5/19
• Refer: 7/5/19
• Report Pass: 7/8/19
• Refer: 7/8/19
• Refer: 7/9/19
• Report Pass: 8/12/19
• Refer: 8/12/19
• Refer: 8/19/19
• Report Pass: 8/30/19
• Refer: 9/5/19
• Enrolled: 9/9/19
• Vetoed: 10/13/19

Caption

Medi-Cal: mental health services.

Impact

The bill is significant in its effect on state laws concerning Medi-Cal, particularly in reinforcing the accountability of mental health service providers. By establishing a structured information exchange, the bill aims to resolve potential conflicts between different service providers more effectively. Moreover, it fortifies existing regulations regarding the timely delivery of essential health services, ensuring that there are no delays due to administrative disputes. This progressive step acknowledges the need for integrated care solutions in the state's healthcare framework, particularly in mental health areas.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1175, introduced by Assembly Member Wood, seeks to enhance the administration of Medi-Cal mental health services by mandating improved cooperation between county mental health plans and Medi-Cal managed care plans. This bill specifically aims to ensure proper care coordination for individuals receiving specialty mental health services. It requires the respective plans to share detailed patient information monthly, including contact details, mental health diagnoses, and treatment histories. The intent is to establish a more efficient system that can respond swiftly to the mental health needs of beneficiaries.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB 1175 appears largely positive, as advocates argue it would lead to better health outcomes for Medi-Cal beneficiaries by facilitating timely interventions and coordinated care. However, some concerns were raised about the implications for patient privacy given the increase in data sharing. Despite such concerns, many stakeholders supported the bill, emphasizing the importance of improved mental health services for vulnerable populations covered under Medi-Cal.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention raised during discussions on AB 1175 revolved around the privacy of patient information. Critics feared that enhanced data sharing could lead to breaches of confidential health information, prompting calls for stringent safeguards to ensure compliance with privacy regulations like HIPAA. Opponents were particularly wary about how the sharing of sensitive patient information might be perceived or mismanaged, thus stressing the need for appropriate oversight mechanisms.