Ohio House Bill HB97

Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/23

Caption

License certified mental health assistants

Impact

The passage of HB 97 is expected to have significant implications for mental health care delivery in Ohio. By officially licensing certified mental health assistants, the bill will likely expand the workforce available to support mental health treatment, particularly in settings where there is a high demand for services. Furthermore, this licensing aims to ensure that services provided by assistants meet established standards of care, thereby increasing accountability and reducing disparities in mental health care access.

Summary

House Bill 97 aims to establish a regulatory framework for licensing certified mental health assistants in Ohio. This legislation amends various existing sections of the Ohio Revised Code and introduces new regulations concerning the qualifications, supervision, and operational guidelines for certified mental health assistants. Under the bill, these assistants will be authorized to perform specific mental health care services under the supervision of licensed physicians, thereby enhancing the structure of mental health services across the state.

Contention

Notably, some points of contention arise from the provisions concerning the supervision of certified mental health assistants. Critics argue that while increasing support for mental health services is vital, the reliance on physician supervision may limit the effectiveness and reach of these assistants in providing care. There are also concerns regarding the implementation of telehealth services, as the bill outlines conditions for initial patient assessments and subsequent treatment, which may pose logistical challenges for providers and patients alike. Debate continues on how these regulations may affect holistic access to mental health care, especially in underserved communities.