Bill > SB328

This bill requires the Maryland Medical Assistance Program, health insurers, nonprofit health service plans, and health maintenance organizations to provide coverage for annual behavioral health wellness visits starting July 1, 2026. A behavioral health wellness visit is defined as a clinical encounter where a health care practitioner assesses whether a patient meets criteria for a psychiatric or substance use disorder. The bill mandates that these entities must cover the annual visit regardless of whether a behavioral health diagnosis is made, and must reimburse the visit at the same rate and basis as a visit resulting in a diagnosis. Health care practitioners eligible to conduct these visits are licensed professionals whose scope of practice includes mental health and substance use disorder care services. The bill applies to all health insurance policies, contracts, and health benefit plans issued, delivered, or renewed in Maryland on or after January 1, 2026, with the aim of promoting proactive mental health screening and support for patients.

Budget and Finance

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/SB0328?ys=2025RS