If enacted, H7858 would have a significant positive impact by expanding the range of services available to individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. The bill mandates the inclusion of essential services, such as outpatient mental health care, crisis response, and support services tailored to veterans, thus addressing critical gaps in existing mental health care systems. This expansion is not only expected to improve health outcomes for residents but could potentially reduce the overall societal costs associated with untreated mental health issues.
Summary
House Bill H7858 aims to amend existing statutes regarding community mental health services in Rhode Island, specifically by establishing certified community behavioral health clinics. Introduced by Representatives Baginski, Ruggiero, and Alzate on March 4, 2022, the bill is designed to create a framework for these clinics, intending to enhance access to mental health and substance use disorder services across the state. The establishments would be guided by federal standards set forth under the Protecting Access to Medicare Act of 2014, thereby ensuring compliance with national health regulations and assisting in receiving federal funds for these services.
Contention
While the bill appears to enhance mental health resources, potential points of contention lie in the funding mechanisms and operational oversight of the certified clinics. Critics may raise concerns regarding the adequacy of funding from state budgets and the timeline for implementation, given the complexities of federal approvals necessary for the establishment of these clinics. Additionally, there may be questions regarding the quality of services and the effectiveness of the integrated approach proposed by the bill, particularly in serving diverse populations across the state.
An Act Concerning The Department Of Mental Health And Addiction Services' Recommendations Regarding Various Revisions To Mental Health And Addiction Services Statutes.
Medicaid; telehealth services provided by FQHCs, rural health clinics and community mental health centers reimbursed at same rate as face-to-face encounters.
Relating to implementing a Medicaid state plan amendment as necessary and appropriate to effectuate a system of certified community behavioral health clinics
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Board of Behavior Analyst Examiners and the requirement to obtain a license to practice as a behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst; imposing fees; providing an administrative penalty.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Board of Behavior Analyst Examiners and the requirement to obtain a license to practice as a behavior analyst or assistant behavior analyst; imposing fees; providing an administrative penalty; providing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.
Changes the name of "applied behavior assistant analyst" to "assistant applied behavior analyst" and makes several changes to provide consistency in the certification language for behavioral analysts.
Changes the name of "applied behavior assistant analyst" to "assistant applied behavior analyst" and makes several changes to provide consistency in the certification language for behavioral analysts.