Expanding Access to Mental Health Services Act

Expanding Access to Mental Health Services Act

This bill permanently allows for Medicare coverage of certain mental health services that are provided through telehealth, including audio-only services for certain categories of services (e.g., screenings and evaluations) in accordance with standards set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Bill 118 hr 635, also known as the Expanding Access to Mental Health Services Act, aims to improve access to mental health services for individuals in the United States. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 25, 2021, by Representative Doris Matsui from California.

The main goal of the bill is to address the shortage of mental health providers in the country by increasing funding for mental health workforce development programs. This includes expanding training opportunities for mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors.

Additionally, the bill seeks to improve access to mental health services in underserved communities, particularly in rural areas and communities of color. It proposes to establish grants for mental health providers to offer services in these areas and to support telehealth services for individuals who may not have access to in-person care. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions to enhance mental health services for children and adolescents, including increasing funding for school-based mental health programs and early intervention services. Overall, the Expanding Access to Mental Health Services Act aims to address the growing mental health crisis in the United States by increasing access to care, improving workforce development, and supporting underserved communities. The bill has received bipartisan support and is currently under review in the House of Representatives.