Relating to providing outreach services, service coordination for behavioral health services and other health care services related to mental health, and related information to members and veterans of the armed forces and their families, creating a pilot program for provision of related behavioral health services, and providing for the creation of related clinical practice guidelines.
Impact
If enacted, SB1648 would considerably reshape the landscape of mental health service delivery for Texas veterans and their families. By establishing dedicated outreach and coordination efforts, the bill seeks to overcome barriers to mental health care access, especially for those in areas lacking sufficient services. The focus on developing evidence-based clinical guidelines could unify treatment approaches across various service providers, potentially improving outcomes for individuals suffering from military-related trauma. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for training materials aimed at enhancing the understanding of trauma within communities that serve these individuals.
Summary
SB1648 aims to enhance the provision of behavioral health services for servicemembers and their families, emphasizing mental health services related to military service. The bill mandates the establishment of a pilot program intended to deliver these services more effectively, particularly for those affected by issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury. The Department of State Health Services is tasked with developing clear clinical practice guidelines that will inform the treatment protocols for mental health providers working with this population. This initiative signifies a targeted effort to address the unique mental health challenges faced by military personnel and their families.
Contention
While the bill is set to facilitate better support for servicemembers, it may also raise concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and resources to implement these programs effectively. Some stakeholders may question whether the local mental health authorities will have sufficient capacity to administer these pilot programs. There may also be discussions around the necessity of creating a reporting and feedback mechanism to monitor the effectiveness of these services, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of servicemembers and their families.
Identical
Relating to providing outreach and behavioral health services to certain military service veterans and their families and providing for the creation of clinical practice guidelines.
Relating to local mental health authority and local behavioral health authority audits and mental and behavioral health reporting, services, and programs.
Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.
Relating to the establishment and administration of Health and Human Services Commission programs providing mental health services to certain individuals in this state.
Relating to the provision of behavioral health crisis services, including the establishment of crisis centers and mobile crisis teams; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the provision of certain behavioral health services, including intensive outpatient services and partial hospitalization services, under Medicaid.
Relating to providing outreach and behavioral health services to certain military service veterans and their families and providing for the creation of clinical practice guidelines.
Provides that defendant who participated in diversion program for certain marijuana offenses on prior occasion may again participate under certain circumstances.
Provides that defendant who participated in diversion program for certain marijuana offenses on prior occasion may again participate under certain circumstances.
A concurrent resolution to urge the United States Congress, Department of Defense, and Department of Veterans Affairs to prioritize research and investment in non-technology treatment options for servicemembers and veterans who have psychological trauma as a result of military service.