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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | June 27, 2024 02:48 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Tina Pickett and Rep. Dan K. Williams |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Staffing flexibility for psychiatric outpatient clinics through telehealth technology |
| State regulations require outpatient clinics to provide two hours of on-site psychiatric time per week for each full-time employee. Psychiatrists must be physically present for at least 50% of that time, with the remaining time covered by a psychiatrist or an advanced practice professional. Recognizing the popularity and convenience of telehealth, Act 76 of 2022 (HB 2419) authorized the Department of Human Services (DHS) to grant waivers for the on-site requirement. While this was a step in the right direction, a permanent solution is now needed. In the near future, we plan to introduce legislation that would allow the on-site time to be performed by either a psychiatrist or an advanced practice professional. This change will provide providers with the permanent flexibility to meet the on-site requirements and comply with federal rules, ensuring payment for providers serving Medicaid patients. Our legislation will also permit DHS to issue waivers to fully remote providers so they can serve patients covered by private insurance. Additionally, the bill will address Medicaid’s “4 walls” requirement by incorporating mobile mental health services delivered by clinical professionals. These services can be provided via telehealth or face-to-face visits with clients. This legislation is supported by the Rehabilitation & Community Providers Association (RCPA) and the Department of Human Services. Please join us in co-sponsoring this important legislation. |