California and Kentucky have received CMS approval to expand behavioral health services through mobile crisis teams, ensuring Medicaid beneficiaries can access timely screenings, de-escalation support, and care coordination. The teams staffed by trained professionals will provide around-the-clock assistance, aiming to reduce the need for costly inpatient services. These initiatives align with President Biden’s mental health strategy, and HHS has invested nearly $1 billion in the 988 Lifeline to enhance accessibility and support for vulnerable populations.
California and Kentucky have taken significant steps to expand their behavioral health services for Medicaid beneficiaries by introducing community-based mobile crisis intervention teams. These teams consist of trained behavioral health professionals and paraprofessionals who will be available to provide immediate support to individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises at any time of day.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approved these proposals, recognizing the importance of offering accessible behavioral health support to those in crisis. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized the significance of providing resources that can improve and save lives.
This expansion of services is made possible under the American Rescue Plan, and California and Kentucky are now among the fifth and sixth states to adopt this approach to expand Medicaid behavioral health services.
The mobile crisis intervention teams will offer a range of services, including individual screenings and assessments, stabilization and de-escalation support, and care coordination. These services aim to better integrate behavioral health into Medicaid programs, ensuring people can access the care they need promptly and efficiently.
CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure praised California and Kentucky for recognizing the importance of breaking down barriers to provide care to individuals in crisis. By offering around-the-clock care to those experiencing mental health or substance abuse crises, the need for costly inpatient services can be minimized.
In line with President Biden’s strategy to improve mental health services, the proposal approvals align with HHS’ efforts to support mental health initiatives. HHS has invested nearly $1 billion into the 988 Lifeline, which has already seen increased usage with the addition of Spanish text and chat services, and specialized support for LGBTQI+ youth and young adults.
Moreover, HHS expanded access to specialty behavioral healthcare for Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries by allowing direct reimbursement to specialists when sought on behalf of a beneficiary by primary care providers.
Overall, these expansions in behavioral health services demonstrate a commitment to enhancing mental health care accessibility and support for vulnerable populations in California and Kentucky.