Bill > H2192

This bill introduces several key provisions aimed at improving behavioral health care services in Massachusetts. First, it establishes an interagency statewide planning committee within the Executive Office of Health and Human Services to conduct an annual comprehensive study of behavioral health care service needs, focusing on inpatient psychiatric units and mental health beds. The study will assess current capacity across different geographic regions, identify service gaps for special populations (such as children, geriatric patients, and individuals with various complex conditions), and provide recommendations for reducing emergency department boarding. Second, the bill creates a special commission to expand access to specialty behavioral health inpatient beds for adults and youth, tasked with analyzing bed availability, funding models, and developing recommendations for a potential multi-payer rate structure. Third, the bill modifies existing laws to require Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) to develop evidence-based behavioral health service guidelines, implement specific reporting requirements, and ensure comprehensive service delivery. Additionally, the bill mandates that the state conduct a study on behavioral health provider practices, establish new clinical competencies for licensed facilities, prohibit patient admission refusals without justification, and require hospitals to review and certify non-discriminatory policies for patients with mental health or substance use conditions. These provisions collectively aim to improve the quality, accessibility, and equity of behavioral health care services across Massachusetts.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2192