This bill mandates that NJ FamilyCare reimburse inpatient providers for long-acting injectable antipsychotic drugs at the same rate as those drugs are reimbursed when administered in an outpatient setting. Specifically, the reimbursement for these drugs in an inpatient context will be separate from the standard Diagnostic Related Group (DRG) reimbursement system, which typically does not account for the high costs of these medications. The bill aims to ensure that the reimbursement reflects the actual costs of the drugs, thereby improving access to these essential treatments for patients with serious mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Additionally, the bill requires the Commissioner of Human Services to apply for any necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement these provisions and secure federal financial participation for state Medicaid expenditures. The Commissioner is also tasked with adopting the necessary rules and regulations to facilitate the bill's implementation. The intent behind this legislation is to enhance medication adherence, reduce hospitalizations, and improve overall clinical outcomes for individuals receiving treatment in inpatient settings.