Medicaid

Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services has finalized updates to Medicaid policy within the state’s mental health framework, revising assessment use, timing and provider eligibility.  The policy now allows reassessments to be conducted based on clinical judgment without a…

Federal Medicaid cuts could deepen financial strain on hospital-based psychiatric services nationwide, many of which already operate at a loss and face closures, Stateline reported March 23.  Data from the American Hospital Association show 126 U.S. hospitals eliminated inpatient psychiatric…

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has released a toolkit to help states strengthen access to behavioral health services for children enrolled in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program.  Medicaid and CHIP cover behavioral health conditions for about…

Colorado’s fee-for-service Medicaid payments for applied behavior analysis did not fully comply with federal and state requirements, according to a February report from HHS’ Office of Inspector General.  The OIG audited 2022 and 2023 payments, examining whether the state’s fee-for-service…

Missouri’s MO HealthNet Medicaid program recently shifted to an All Patient Refined Diagnosis Related Groups payment system for acute hospital inpatient services — a shift that is reshaping operations at St. Louis-based SSM Health.  The model replaces a per diem…

Maine made tens of millions of dollars in improper Medicaid payments for services provided to children with autism, according to a January 2026 audit from the HHS Office of Inspector General. The report reviewed the state’s 2023 fee-for-service Medicaid claims…

Behavioral health may not be known as the moneymaker in healthcare, but the specialty significantly impacts patients throughout their care journey, including their physical health. In light of anticipated Medicaid cuts, behavioral health leaders are developing sustainable care models to…