Expanded Telehealth Access: Behavioral and Mental Health Treatment via Medicare/Medicaid.
This Act aims to improve access to mental and behavioral health services, including substance use treatment, by expanding the use of telehealth under Medicare and Medicaid programs. This means citizens, especially those in rural areas or facing transportation issues, will more easily access psychological and psychiatric help, including initial evaluations and treatment management, without needing an in-person visit. Medicare changes will take effect from January 1, 2025, removing geographic restrictions for these services.
Key points
Medicare Telehealth: Starting January 1, 2025, geographic requirements for behavioral health services provided via telehealth (e.g., video consultations) will be eliminated, making it easier to access psychiatrists and therapists.
Medicaid Expansion: Medicaid guidelines will be expanded to cover mental and behavioral health disorder treatment via telehealth, including psychotherapy, increasing care availability for low-income individuals.
Substance Use Treatment: The Act strengthens and expands existing telehealth provisions for substance use disorder treatment (SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act) to include the full scope of mental health services.
Expired
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