Bill > SB0437

This bill requires health insurance plans offered in Tennessee starting January 1, 2026, to provide coverage and reimbursement for mental health and substance abuse services using a Psychiatric Collaborative Care Model (PCCM). Under this model, a primary care provider and care manager work closely with a psychiatric consultant to provide integrated behavioral healthcare, which involves regular patient assessments using validated tools and ongoing treatment modifications. The bill defines mental health services as treatments for conditions listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Insurance plans can still deny coverage based on medical necessity, and specific programs like TennCare and CoverKids may provide coverage according to their existing medical necessity guidelines. The purpose of this bill appears to be improving mental health and substance abuse treatment by encouraging a more collaborative and comprehensive approach to patient care across primary and psychiatric healthcare providers.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0437&ga=114