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The Health Care Authority (HCA) is excited to share new Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidance acknowledging the value of behavioral health professionals and their contributions to the Medicaid program.
This guidance provides new clarity on the ability for Medicaid agencies to access greater federal funding in the administration of Medicaid when hiring behavioral health professionals.
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Highlights from the report
- CMS is changing policy to allow states to claim the increased skilled professional medical personnel (SPMP) matching rate with respect to expenditures for employees who have obtained a master’s degree in social work or a master’s degree in another behavioral health field, or a higher degree, provided they are licensed as independent practitioners by the state and that all other SPMP requirements are met.
- This policy will support states to reach the goals set forth in the CMCS Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Action Plan through hiring and maintaining the specialized expertise needed to administer a robust Medicaid program that can meet beneficiaries’ mental health and SUD needs.
- Broadening the SPMP policy will help Masters of Social Work (MSW) and other master’s-level (or higher) behavioral professionals contribute to the improvement of their states’ Medicaid programs based on their understanding of social and welfare supports, social justice orientation, community organizing, and cultural responsiveness, among other things.
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May was Mental Health Awareness Month and HCA extends its gratitude to all behavioral health care providers for your dedication and commitment to the mental well-being of our communities.
HCA will continue to provide ongoing education and training, advocate for policies that strengthen behavioral health, and offer other resources for providers across the state.
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