CMS to consider alternative payment model for behavioral health services: 4 things to know

CMS may design a service delivery model for Medicare, Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Program beneficiaries with behavioral health conditions.

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Here are four things to know.

1. CMS’ Innovation Center would develop the model. Addressing beneficiaries with substance use disorders, mental disorders, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and behavioral health workforce challenges may be a part of the payment model.

2. The model may include the participation of other payers, could qualify as an advanced alternative payment model under the Medicare and CHIP Reauthorization Act and could aim to enhance provider participation in telehealth services.

3. The agency scheduled a public meeting on the potential model for Sept. 8 in Baltimore, according to a July 21 notice. The meeting will include four panel sessions with behavioral health stakeholders.

4. CMS will consider stakeholders’ recommendations as it considers the model, the notice states. 

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