Connecticut House Bill HB05714

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/19
• Refer: 1/22/19

Caption

An Act Expanding Mental Health Care Options Under The Medicaid Program.

Impact

The proposed changes under HB 05714 are intended to address existing gaps in mental health care coverage by facilitating early intervention through increased consumer access. By allowing reimbursement for a diverse array of qualified mental health professionals, the bill is positioned to create a more inclusive and effective system for delivering mental health services to those in need. This strategy is expected to lead to improved mental health outcomes for Medicaid recipients and reduce overall costs for the program.

Summary

House Bill 05714 aims to expand mental health care options for recipients of the Medicaid program. The bill seeks to amend Title 17b of the general statutes to include reimbursements for a broader range of mental health providers, such as accredited and certified therapists and addiction specialists, in addition to licensed clinical social workers. The objective is to enhance access to mental health services, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary care without undue financial burden.

Contention

However, the bill may face scrutiny regarding the implications of expanding the pool of reimbursable providers. Some stakeholders might express concerns about the qualifications and standards of non-licensed providers, questioning whether such expansions could dilute the quality of care available to Medicaid recipients. There may also be debates surrounding the cost implications of adding more providers to the reimbursement list, particularly in relation to ongoing budget constraints within the state's Medicaid program.