House Resolution No. by Representative Selders urges the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) to establish a study group to examine reimbursement rates for outpatient behavioral health services in Louisiana, comparing them to rates in other southern states. The resolution highlights the importance of Mental Health Rehabilitation (MHR) services, which are provided by approximately 325 licensed providers in the state, and emphasizes the need for a thorough assessment of these services to improve care for individuals with complex behavioral health issues. The study group will include key representatives from the LDH and service providers, and is tasked with submitting a report of findings and recommendations by February 1, 2024.

The report is expected to include comparative analysis of outpatient behavioral health service rates from states such as Texas, Arkansas, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Additionally, the resolution calls for the exploration of standardized assessment methods for programs serving individuals with behavioral health issues. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness of behavioral health services in Louisiana and ensure that reimbursement rates are aligned with those of neighboring states, ultimately improving access to care for Medicaid enrollees.