To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to remove in-person requirements under Medicare for mental health services furnished through telehealth and telecommunications technology.

Bill 117 hr 8497, also known as the "Medicare Mental Health Telehealth Expansion Act," aims to make it easier for Medicare beneficiaries to access mental health services through telehealth and telecommunications technology. The bill proposes to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to remove the current in-person requirements for receiving mental health services under Medicare.

Currently, Medicare beneficiaries are required to have an in-person visit with a healthcare provider in order to receive mental health services. This can be a barrier for individuals who live in rural or underserved areas, have mobility issues, or have difficulty accessing transportation. By removing this requirement, the bill seeks to expand access to mental health services for Medicare beneficiaries, particularly those who may face challenges in accessing care.

The bill would allow Medicare beneficiaries to receive mental health services through telehealth and telecommunications technology, such as video conferencing or phone calls. This would enable individuals to receive care from the comfort of their own homes, reducing the need for travel and making it easier for individuals to access the care they need. Overall, the "Medicare Mental Health Telehealth Expansion Act" aims to improve access to mental health services for Medicare beneficiaries by removing in-person requirements and allowing for the use of telehealth and telecommunications technology. This could help to address disparities in access to mental health care and ensure that individuals can receive the care they need, regardless of their location or circumstances.