Substance abuse services; granting certain Medicaid reimbursement protection to certified alcohol and drug counselors. Effective date.
Impact
The bill proposes to amend existing Medicaid reimbursement guidelines, potentially leading to an expansion of access to substance abuse services across Oklahoma. With more equitable reimbursement rates, the hope is that certified alcohol and drug counselors will remain engaged in providing essential services and may even encourage more individuals to enter the field. This adjustment could lead to improved patient outcomes as access to professional help is vital in recovery from addiction.
Summary
Senate Bill 1723 aims to enhance the reimbursement rates for services provided by certified alcohol and drug counselors under Medicaid. This legislation addresses a gap in the reimbursement structure that currently places certified counselors at a financial disadvantage compared to their licensed counterparts. By ensuring that certified counselors are reimbursed at rates equivalent to those of licensed counselors for the same services, SB1723 seeks to support the workforce in the field of substance abuse treatment and recovery.
Contention
While SB1723 seems largely beneficial in its intent, potential points of contention may arise regarding state budget allocations to support the increased reimbursement rates. Some lawmakers may voice concerns about the financial implications of this bill, questioning whether the state can sustain higher reimbursements without negatively impacting other areas of the healthcare budget. Advocates for substance abuse treatment may push back against funding cuts in other related services that could occur as resources are reallocated.
Practice of alcohol and drug counseling; removing certain limitation on appointees to the Oklahoma Board of Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors. Effective date.
Freedom of conscience; creating the Medical Ethics Defense Act; granting certain rights and protections to certain medical practitioners, healthcare institutions, or healthcare payers. Effective date.
Hospitals; requiring Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to distribute emergency opioid antagonists to hospitals; requiring hospitals to distribute emergency opioid antagonist to certain persons upon discharge except under certain conditions; granting certain immunities. Effective date.
Mental health and substance use disorder benefits; requiring certain plans and Medicaid provide reimbursement for care pursuant to collaborative care model; allowing for denial in certain circumstances. Effective date.