House File 2543 amends various sections of Iowa's Code related to subacute mental health care services. Notably, it removes a paragraph from Section 135G.1 and introduces a requirement in Section 135G.3 for subacute care facilities to develop an initial treatment plan for residents within twenty-four hours of their admission. Additionally, it establishes a new section, 135G.3A, which mandates timely insurance authorization determinations for mental health professionals requesting coverage for subacute services, with specific timelines for urgent and nonurgent requests.

The bill also calls for the creation of an electronic bed tracking system for psychiatric medical institutions for children and requires collaboration between the Departments of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing and Health and Human Services to review and modify administrative rules that may hinder the establishment and expansion of subacute mental health care facilities. Furthermore, it directs the Department of Health and Human Services to assess the feasibility of providing subacute mental health care services at the state mental health institute at Independence, with a report due by January 4, 2027. The bill is effective immediately upon enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 135G.1, 135G.3
Enrolled: 135G.1, 135G.3