Bill > HB0365

This bill requires the Utah Department of Health and Human Services to issue a request for proposals to conduct a comprehensive study on pediatric mental health care access in the state. The study must measure wait times between initial referral and first mental health appointment for children, and analyze factors affecting those wait times, such as geographic location, insurance type, provider availability, and specialty care needs. The research must compare wait times across different regions, types of providers, practice settings, and payment models, using both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods, including parent surveys. The researcher must protect patient privacy by developing appropriate data collection methods, complying with state and federal privacy laws, and ensuring all data is deidentified. The selected researcher will be required to submit a preliminary report to the Health and Human Services Interim Committee and the Behavioral Health Commission by May 31, 2026, and a final report with policy recommendations by May 31, 2027. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025, and aims to improve understanding of barriers to pediatric mental health care access in Utah.

Health and Social Services

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0365.html