WASHINGTON, DC - House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) commented today on the final Medicaid managed care rule from CMS that eases some long-standing restrictions on Medicaid managed care plans’ reimbursements for care provided in institutions for the mentally ill. Oversight and Investigations Chairman Tim Murphy (R-PA) called for similar action in his legislation, H.R. 2646, the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act of 2015.
Chairman Upton stated, “While we’re still evaluating the totality of CMS’ 1400 page Medicaid ‘mega-reg,’ it is welcome news to see restrictions eased on federal reimbursements for care in certain settings. This commonsense change will have an important impact on families focused on getting their loved ones the care they need, and that’s good news. We still have work to do to bring this Great Society program into the 21st century, but this modernization of policy represents a real win when it comes to providing care for the mentally ill."
Upton continued, “We’ve had some success getting important provisions across the finish line, most recently funding for the Assisted Outpatient Treatment grant program. And while there’s much more to be done to reform our mental health systems, we’re encouraged about the work ahead based upon this targeted improvement. Kudos to Chairman Murphy for bringing attention to this vital issue, and for being such a passionate voice for those in need of care. Our work continues, and make no mistake, as evidenced by this latest change by CMS, we are headed in the right direction and gaining momentum to deliver real reform."
