Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB7096

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to coverage of mental health services.

Impact

The legislation mandates that MCOs reimburse in-network providers at a rate of no less than 180% of the Medicare allowable charge for mental health services. This is expected to enhance the financial viability of providers, potentially improving access to mental health care for enrollees. Furthermore, the bill allows enrollees to seek services from out-of-network providers, who will be reimbursed at 100% of the Medicare allowable charge, preventing providers from charging additional fees to the patient. This could significantly enhance the choices available to individuals needing mental health services.

Summary

Senate Bill 7096 aims to amend Tennessee law regarding mental health services coverage, particularly within the TennCare program. The bill introduces several significant provisions that impact how managed care organizations (MCOs) handle mental health services. Notably, it prohibits the application of quantitative treatment limitations on mental health services in group health insurance contracts, ensuring that enrollees will have better access to necessary care without arbitrary restrictions on visits or duration of treatment.

Contention

While the bill presents progressive steps towards mental health care accessibility, it may face scrutiny regarding cost implications for the state and MCOs. Critics may argue that such mandates could exacerbate financial pressures on MCOs, potentially affecting the overall sustainability of the TennCare program. Supporters contend that improving mental health coverage is essential to state welfare and could lead to long-term savings by reducing the need for more intensive services down the line. As with many healthcare-related bills, advocates and opponents alike are likely to engage in vigorous debate regarding the balance between care access and financial feasibility.

Companion Bills

TN HB7103

Crossfiled AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to coverage of mental health services.

Previously Filed As

TN HB7103

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to coverage of mental health services.

TN SB7097

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to coverage of behavioral health services.

TN HB7104

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to coverage of behavioral health services.

TN HB7088

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 33; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to coverage of mental health services.

TN SB7039

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8; Title 33; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to coverage of mental health services.

TN HB0651

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 56 and Title 71, relative to health care.

TN SB1372

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 56 and Title 71, relative to health care.

TN SB0666

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 53; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to healthcare services.

TN HB0885

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 53; Title 56 and Title 71, relative to healthcare services.

TN HB0484

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 56 and Title 71, relative to coverage of biomarker testing.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.