Mental Health Workforce and Language Access Act of 2021

Mental Health Workforce and Language Access Act of 2021

This bill establishes within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) two demonstration programs to increase access to mental health services provided in languages other than English at federally qualified health centers (FQHCs). In carrying out the programs, HHS must give preference to FQHCs at which at least 20% of the patients are best served in a language other than English.

First, HHS must provide National Health Service Corps (NHSC) loan repayments to mental health care providers who agree to serve their period of obligated service in an FQHC. HHS may provide enhanced payments to those who serve in an FQHC with non-English language needs. (The NHSC is a scholarship and student loan repayment program for eligible health care providers who agree to work in areas with a shortage of primary care, dental care, and mental health care providers.)

Second, HHS must award grants to FQHCs for recruiting and retaining mental health care providers who are fluent in a language other than English.

Bill 117 HR 5937, also known as the Mental Health Workforce and Language Access Act of 2021, aims to address the shortage of mental health professionals in the United States and improve access to mental health services for individuals with limited English proficiency.

The bill proposes several key provisions to achieve these goals. Firstly, it seeks to increase funding for mental health workforce development programs, including scholarships, loan repayment programs, and training grants for mental health professionals. This would help attract and retain more mental health professionals, particularly in underserved communities.

Additionally, the bill includes measures to improve language access for individuals seeking mental health services. This includes requiring mental health providers to offer interpretation and translation services for individuals with limited English proficiency, as well as providing cultural competency training for mental health professionals to better serve diverse populations. Furthermore, the bill aims to enhance coordination and collaboration between mental health providers, community organizations, and government agencies to ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to mental health care delivery. Overall, the Mental Health Workforce and Language Access Act of 2021 seeks to address the critical shortage of mental health professionals and improve access to mental health services for all individuals, regardless of language barriers. By investing in workforce development, language access, and collaboration, this bill has the potential to significantly improve mental health care in the United States.