Bill > SB39

This bill mandates the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) to conduct an independent, cost-driven study to determine fair reimbursement rates for community-based behavioral health services, considering the actual costs of providing these services. The Maryland Health Care Commission (MHCC), referred to as the "COMMISSION," will assist MDH in this study and is authorized to require community providers to submit necessary information. Additionally, the bill establishes a Workgroup on Behavioral Health Rate Methodology Modernization, comprised of various stakeholders including legislators, health officials, providers, and experts, to develop updated reimbursement methods for specific health clinics and outpatient mental health centers. The MDH will then implement a payment system based on the study's findings and the Workgroup's recommendations, and the MHCC will report on the progress and impact of these changes to the Governor and the General Assembly.