Provides that licensed independent clinical social workers be able to enroll and bill Medicaid directly for covered services provided to adults with Medicaid fee-for-service coverage.
Impact
The passage of S0874 is expected to significantly impact state healthcare laws by formalizing the role of licensed independent clinical social workers in the Medicaid program. By allowing these professionals to bill Medicaid directly, it is anticipated that more individuals will have access to vital mental health services, which is particularly important given the increasing demand for mental health care in Rhode Island. This measure could help integrate social work into the broader healthcare landscape, supporting various treatment modalities.
Summary
S0874 aims to amend the Rhode Island General Laws concerning Medical Assistance by allowing licensed independent clinical social workers to enroll and bill Medicaid directly for services provided to adults covered by Medicaid fee-for-service. This legislation seeks to expand access to mental health services by ensuring that social workers can be reimbursed for their services, thereby recognizing their essential role in the healthcare system.
Contention
While the bill has prospects for positive impact, potential points of contention may arise regarding the reimbursement rates set by the Medicaid fee schedule proposed by the director. Stakeholders might be concerned about the sustainability of funding for these services and the overall implications for the quality and accessibility of mental health care. Additionally, there may be debates around the adequacy of training and resources available for social workers who will be engaging in this expanded role within the Medicaid framework.
Provides that licensed independent clinical social workers be able to enroll and bill Medicaid directly for covered services provided to adults with Medicaid fee-for-service coverage.
Authorizes the executive office of health and human services to establish a program providing coverage for nutritional assistance and medically tailored meals for certain beneficiaries where there is a clinical need.
Requires insurance coverage for all services provided by a pharmacist provided coverage of such services would have been covered if provided by a physician, advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant.
Requires insurance coverage for all services provided by a pharmacist provided coverage of such services would have been covered if provided by a physician, advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant.
Requires that any insurance contract issued, amended or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, that provides hospital, medical or surgical coverage shall provide coverage for medically necessary treatment of mental health or substance use disorders.
Provides that services provided by graduate student interns who work under a supervisory protocol would be eligible to be paid from Medicaid reimbursement.
Requires that Medicaid enrollment be maintained or provided to all inmates in the first 30 days of incarceration at the adult correctional institutions within the department of corrections and the last 30 days of incarceration.
All Medicaid programs operated by EOHHS would not reimburse home care providers less than fee-for-service rates adopted by rate review recommendations of the office of health insurance commissioners.