Cassidy’s bill aims to make mental health services more accessible for Medicaid youth

U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) recently proposed bipartisan legislation that would ensure Medicaid coverage kicks in for mental health services and primary care services that a young person receives on the same day

“Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Expanding access to mental health services for young people on Medicaid by removing billing restrictions can help everyone do much better,” Sen. Cassidy said. “Let’s work together to make mental health support more accessible for everyone.”

The Improving Coordination and Access to Resources Equitably (CARE) for Youth Act, S. 2556, which Sen. Cassidy cosponsored on July 27 alongside bill sponsor U.S. Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE), aims to increase access to mental health services for Medicaid beneficiaries, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.

If enacted, S. 2556 would align federal law with existing laws in 27 states that prevent surprise billing for youth on Medicaid who seek mental health services on the same day as primary care services, the summary says.

“In the wake of a worsening youth mental health crisis, it’s important that we make mental health services accessible to all children,” said Sen. Carper. “The Improving CARE for Youth Act will eliminate financial barriers for the more than 50 percent of children in this country on Medicaid, and support better-coordinated care across providers.”

The legislation is supported by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, the American Psychiatric Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.