The move will allow programs to support community-based mobile crisis teams to serve Medicaid recipients around the clock, according to the Dec. 28 announcement.
“Thanks to resources provided by the American Rescue Plan, states now have an opportunity through their Medicaid programs to expand behavioral health support in their communities,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “Where needed, behavioral health experts, not law enforcement, should be the first responders to mental health and substance misuse crises.”
For states currently running similar programs, the initiative will provide them with additional resources, while also providing flexibility for states to personalize crisis care programs.
The option requires crisis teams to include at least one behavioral health professional for immediate care, with the option to support responders with paraprofessionals or other experts, according to the announcement. Patients will then receive referral to sustainable care coordination and social services as needed.
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