This bill mandates that health insurance carriers in New Jersey provide coverage for the enrollment of students in recovery high school alternative education programs, specifically for those diagnosed with substance use disorders or dependencies. It amends existing laws to ensure that coverage for mental health conditions and substance use disorders is provided under the same terms and conditions as other medical benefits. Coverage is contingent upon a determination of clinical appropriateness made by qualified professionals, including certified alcohol and drug counselors and treating physicians, based on criteria from the latest Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

The bill applies to various health insurance contracts, including individual and group hospital service corporation contracts, medical service corporation contracts, and individual health insurance policies, emphasizing the requirement for parity in coverage for mental health and substance use disorders in alignment with the federal Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008. Additionally, it includes provisions for benefits delivered through the psychiatric Collaborative Care Model, ensuring the integration of mental health services into overall health care. The act will take effect 60 days after enactment and will apply to all relevant contracts and policies issued or renewed thereafter.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 17:48-6, 17:48A-7, 17:48E-35.20, 17B:26-2.1, 17B:27-46.1, 17B:27A-7.5, 17B:27A-19.7, 26:2J-4.20, 52:14-17.29