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.

3/21/2025, 4:55 PM

Summary of Bill HR 1867

Bill 119 HR 1867, also known as the "Medicare Mental Health Access Act," aims to make it easier for individuals to access mental health services through Medicare by removing the requirement for in-person visits. The bill proposes to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to allow mental health services to be provided through telehealth and telecommunications technology.

Currently, Medicare requires individuals to have in-person visits in order to receive mental health services. This can be a barrier for individuals who may have difficulty traveling to appointments or who live in remote areas with limited access to mental health providers. By allowing mental health services to be provided through telehealth and telecommunications technology, individuals will have greater flexibility in accessing the care they need.

The bill is non-partisan and focuses on improving access to mental health services for Medicare beneficiaries. It does not propose any changes to the types of mental health services covered by Medicare or the qualifications of mental health providers. The goal of the bill is to make it easier for individuals to receive the care they need in a timely and convenient manner. Overall, Bill 119 HR 1867 is a positive step towards improving mental health care access for Medicare beneficiaries by removing in-person requirements and allowing for services to be provided through telehealth and telecommunications technology.

Congressional Summary of HR 1867

This bill permanently removes in-person evaluation requirements for mental health telehealth services under Medicare.

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Current Status of Bill HR 1867

Bill HR 1867 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since March 5, 2025. Bill HR 1867 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on March 5, 2025. Bill HR 1867's most recent activity was Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. as of March 5, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1867

Total Number of Sponsors

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Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

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Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1867

Primary Policy Focus

Health

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1867

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.