Increases Medicaid reimbursement for in-person partial care and intensive outpatient behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment services, and associated transportation services, for adults.
The impact of A2868 is poised to extend beyond cost adjustments; it is anticipated to enhance service delivery and encourage more providers to participate in Medicaid. By raising reimbursement rates, the bill facilitates better access to needed services, potentially addressing barriers faced by adults with severe mental illness or substance use disorders. It also aims to deliver a more supportive framework for facilities providing essential non-residential treatment sessions, thereby aligning with broader state health objectives in promoting community integration and preventing hospitalizations.
Assembly Bill A2868 seeks to enhance the Medicaid program's support for behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment services through significant adjustments to reimbursement rates. Specifically, the bill proposes a 35 percent increase in Medicaid reimbursement rates for in-person partial care and intensive outpatient services. This increase is relevant for adult Medicaid enrollees, thereby promoting access to essential mental health and addiction treatment services. Additionally, the bill aims to improve compensation for transportation services associated with these treatments, raising the reimbursement for transportation to $10 per trip, which marks an increase from the current rate of $7.
Notably, while the bill has garnered support from various stakeholders advocating for improved mental health resources, there may be concerns regarding funding and budget implications. Critics could argue that increasing reimbursement rates requires careful fiscal consideration, particularly in light of budget constraints within the state. Furthermore, stakeholders may raise questions about the efficiency of fund allocation to ensure it effectively translates to improved patient outcomes and access to care.