Bill > S00499

This bill, known as the "Ensuring Access to Behavioral Health Act," aims to improve mental health and substance use disorder services in New York's healthcare network. The legislation amends the public health law to explicitly include mental health services, substance use disorder treatment services, and recovery support services in the definition of "comprehensive health services" for health maintenance organizations (HMOs). It requires the commissioner of health to ensure that HMOs maintain a network of healthcare providers that adequately meets the comprehensive health needs of enrollees, with specific emphasis on mental health and substance use disorder services. The bill directs the superintendent of financial services and the commissioner of health to review data and update regulations regarding network adequacy, focusing on factors such as geographic accessibility, provider-to-enrollee ratios, appointment wait times, and the use of telehealth services. The updated regulations will also consider the needs of specific populations, including low-income individuals, people with limited English proficiency, LGBTQ+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and those with complex health conditions. The goal is to ensure that New Yorkers have improved access to behavioral health services across various healthcare plans and settings.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S499