Maryland House Bill HB1155

Maryland 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/10/23
• Refer: 2/10/23
• Report Pass: 4/3/23
• Engrossed: 4/4/23
• Refer: 4/4/23

Caption

Workgroup on Establishing a Youth Codesigned Integrated Behavioral Health Model

Impact

The workgroup established under HB1155 will be tasked with reviewing successful behavioral health models from various regions and proposing a plan for pilot programs. These programs will roll out in diverse geographic areas of Maryland and will rely heavily on the collaborative input of young individuals who have faced behavioral health issues. Ultimately, this is intended to lead to more inclusive and effective behavioral health care strategies, improving access and outcomes for youth across the state. The workgroup is expected to provide recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly by December 2024.

Summary

House Bill 1155 establishes the Workgroup on Establishing a Youth Codesigned Integrated Behavioral Health Model in Maryland. The primary focus of this bill is to foster the involvement of youth aged 16 to 25 in the development and implementation of behavioral health services that directly affect them. By employing a codesigning approach, the bill emphasizes partnership between service providers and youth, seeking to create programs that are more responsive to their needs and experiences. This approach is framed within the context of integrated behavioral health care, aiming to streamline services into a single access point for youth and their families.

Sentiment

Discussions surrounding HB1155 have been largely positive, with proponents highlighting the necessity of youth involvement in behavioral health decision-making. Advocates for the bill argue that engaging young individuals in the co-design of services can lead to more meaningful and effective care, contributing to better mental health outcomes. The overall sentiment reflects a growing recognition of the importance of youth agency in healthcare decisions, fostering optimism about the potential impact of the proposed programs.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support, there are concerns regarding the execution of the youth codesign model and the effective collaboration between various stakeholders, including state agencies and youth representatives. Critics worry about balancing varied interests and ensuring that the voices of youth are genuinely represented in the decision-making process. Furthermore, the funding and sustainability of the proposed pilot programs raise questions about whether adequate resources will be available to support the intended initiatives long term.