US
Us Congress Senate Bill SB1264

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB1264

Introduced
4/2/25  

Caption

Mental and Physical Health Care Comorbidities Act of 2025

Impact

If enacted, SB 1264 would amend the Social Security Act to set a framework for the Secretary of Health and Human Services to implement a program that encompasses evidence-based best practices aimed at enhancing care for individuals with dual health challenges. By integrating mental health services with physical health care, the bill intends to elevate the standard of treatment for these individuals, likely resulting in improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs across Medicare and potentially Medicaid as well. It underscores systemic changes by advocating for modifications in reimbursement strategies to align with collaborative care methodologies.

Summary

Senate Bill 1264, known as the Mental and Physical Health Care Comorbidities Act of 2025, seeks to improve the treatment of individuals experiencing both mental and physical health challenges under the Medicare program. The bill proposes the establishment of a demonstration program that aims to foster innovative care models through collaborative treatment approaches in eligible hospitals, focusing on individuals with comorbidities and those susceptible to developing them. It pays particular attention to the social determinants of health that impact these vulnerable groups, ensuring a holistic treatment paradigm is prioritized.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding SB 1264 may arise from the implementation details and the prioritization of certain communities, especially those defined as vulnerable based on socioeconomic status. The legislation's focus on evidence-based practices implies there may be disagreements on what qualifies as 'evidence' and who gets to define it. Additionally, how hospitals will negotiate payments under the new program and the extent to which community organizations can participate will be critical in shepherding this initiative forward, potentially sparking debate among stakeholders within the healthcare and legislative communities.

Congress_id

119-S-1264

Introduced_date

2025-04-02

Latest SB1264 Activity

Companion Bills

US HB2590

Same As Mental and Physical Health Care Comorbidities Act of 2025This bill establishes a demonstration program to test hospital innovations that support low-income or uninsured individuals with serious mental and physical health comorbidities and to identify appropriate payment reforms under Medicare and Medicaid.Participating hospitals must (1) have a proportionally high number of Medicare or Medicaid patients, and (2) develop a plan and related quality metrics for innovations to provide coordinated care and address social determinants of health for individuals with serious mental illness or emotional disturbance and physical comorbidities (e.g., chronic conditions).

Similar Bills

US HB2590

Mental and Physical Health Care Comorbidities Act of 2025This bill establishes a demonstration program to test hospital innovations that support low-income or uninsured individuals with serious mental and physical health comorbidities and to identify appropriate payment reforms under Medicare and Medicaid.Participating hospitals must (1) have a proportionally high number of Medicare or Medicaid patients, and (2) develop a plan and related quality metrics for innovations to provide coordinated care and address social determinants of health for individuals with serious mental illness or emotional disturbance and physical comorbidities (e.g., chronic conditions).

US HB2495

Nutrition Counseling Aiding Recovery for Eating Disorders Act of 2025 or the Nutrition CARE Act of 2025This bill provides for Medicare coverage of medical nutrition therapy services for individuals with eating disorders. Such services must be furnished by a registered dietitian or nutrition professional pursuant to a referral from a physician, psychologist, or other authorized mental health professional.

US SB3450

Mental and Physical Health Care Comorbidities Act of 2023

US HR185

Recognizing the need of Congress to prevent, address, and treat obesity as a disease in the United States on this World Obesity Day, March 4, 2025.

US SB4860

Residential Recovery for Seniors Act

US HB9232

Residential Recovery for Seniors Act

US HR175

Recognizing the seriousness of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and expressing support for the designation of the month of September as "PCOS Awareness Month".

US HR1384

Recognizing the seriousness of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and expressing support for the designation of the month of September 2024 as "PCOS Awareness Month".