This bill amends various sections of the General Laws to establish and mandate coverage for acute mental health crisis mobile response and stabilization services. These services are defined as a behavioral health crisis intervention system that provides immediate de-escalation, stabilization, and follow-up care by certified providers. The bill specifies that every individual or group health insurance contract issued or renewed in the state on or after January 1, 2026, must include coverage for these services, ensuring that utilization review processes do not hinder timely access to care.

Additionally, the bill requires that insurers reimburse certified providers for mobile response and stabilization services at rates equal to or greater than the prevailing integrated state Medicaid rate, effective October 1, 2026. This reimbursement requirement is based on the state Medicaid payment methodology as established by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. The bill outlines that this requirement does not apply to certain types of insurance coverage, such as hospital confinement indemnity and long-term care. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance access to critical mental health services for children and youth in crisis situations.

Statutes affected:
3065: 27-18-95, 27-19-87, 27-20-83, 27-41-100