A bipartisan group of federal lawmakers in the House introduced the Ensuring Excellence in Mental Health Act to expand behavioral healthcare access.
The legislation was introduced by Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, Doris Matsui, D-Calif., Craig Goldman, R-Texas, Angie Craig, D-Minn., Mark Alford, R-Mo., Paul Tonko, D-N.Y., and Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., It would permanently authorize the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic model and allow states the option to implement it within their behavioral healthcare systems, according to an April 28 news release from Mr. Pfluger’s office.
The bill aims to address gaps in care as demand for behavioral health services rises. CCBHCs provide a range of services, including 24/7 crisis care, outpatient mental health and substance use treatment, screening and diagnosis, and coordination with hospitals, law enforcement and veterans organizations.
The legislation would also establish a Medicare payment structure for CCBHCs, codify Medicaid payment systems, create an accreditation process and authorize expansion grants and data infrastructure for clinics, according to the release.
A bipartisan group of senators introduced its own version of the Ensuring Excellence in Mental Health Act in December.
Read the full House bill here.
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