Maryland 2023 Regular Session

Maryland House Bill HB48

Introduced
1/11/23  
Refer
1/11/23  
Report Pass
3/17/23  
Engrossed
3/20/23  
Refer
3/20/23  
Report Pass
3/29/23  
Enrolled
4/3/23  
Chaptered
5/3/23  

Caption

Maryland Medical Assistance Program – Collaborative Care Model Services – Implementation and Reimbursement Expansion

Impact

The legislation signifies a pivotal shift in how Maryland administers and finances behavioral health services within its medical assistance framework. By mandating the Department of Health to provide reimbursement under the collaborative care model, the bill is set to broaden access to essential mental health services and reinforce their delivery in primary care settings. This could lead to a more harmonious intersection of physical and mental health care, which proponents believe will significantly improve patient care and outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 48 focuses on enhancing the Maryland Medical Assistance Program by implementing and expanding reimbursement for services aligned with the Collaborative Care Model. The bill effectively repeals the previous Collaborative Care Pilot Program, transitioning to a broader statewide initiative intended to integrate somatic and behavioral health services in primary care. This approach aims to facilitate care coordination and enhance treatment effectiveness, thereby improving health outcomes for participants in the program.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 48 appears generally positive among stakeholders, particularly health care providers who support the integration of services that enhance patient care. Advocates argue that such integration is essential to meet the rising demand for mental health services. However, there are concerns about potential implications for funding and resource allocation, especially in rural areas where access to such integrated care might be more challenging.

Contention

While the bill has garnered widespread support, contention arises around its execution and the adequacy of funding required for its success. Critics are wary about the infrastructure needed for the collaborative care model and whether sufficient resources will be allocated to implement it effectively. The transition from a pilot program to a statewide initiative raises questions about the capacity of existing systems to handle the anticipated increase in service delivery, particularly in under-resourced areas.

Companion Bills

MD SB101

Crossfiled Maryland Medical Assistance Program – Collaborative Care Model Services – Implementation and Reimbursement Expansion

Similar Bills

AZ SB1018

Collaborative care; appropriation

NM HB329

Behavioral Health Purchasing Collaborative

TX SB58

Relating to delivery of and reporting on mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and certain other services.

MN HF958

Medical assistance coverage of psychiatric collaborative care model services provided, and money appropriated.

PA SB522

Providing for Collaborative Care Model and Primary Care Behavioral Health Model Implementation Program.

PA HB361

Providing for Collaborative Care Model and Primary Care Behavioral Health Model Implementation Program.

HI HB1175

Relating To Increased Interagency Coordination And Collaboration Between County Law Enforcement Agencies And Social Service Providers.

HI HB1175

Relating To Increased Interagency Coordination And Collaboration Between County Law Enforcement Agencies And Social Service Providers.