Bill > HB1813

This bill focuses on improving medical assistance services, particularly behavioral health crisis services for Medicaid enrollees in Washington state. The legislation requires the Health Care Authority to consult quarterly with other departments to plan for new or expanded services in regional service areas, and to adjust Medicaid managed care rates to reflect these changes. The bill mandates that the reprocurement of services include stakeholder input from tribes, patient groups, healthcare providers, and others, and requires developing methodologies to measure network access and adequacy for behavioral health services. Key provisions include establishing a 24/7 behavioral health crisis hotline, expanding crisis response services, and creating new coordination mechanisms between managed care organizations and behavioral health administrative services organizations. By July 1, 2026, managed care organizations must expand delegation arrangements for crisis services, including mobile crisis teams, peer support, and crisis stabilization services. The bill also requires the development of standardized electronic care coordination data-sharing standards and creates an operational plan for a statewide behavioral health administrative services organization serving American Indians and Alaska Natives. Importantly, the bill's implementation is contingent on specific funding being provided in the omnibus appropriations act by June 30, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1813&Year=2025&Initiative=false