Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Health Care Committee

HB 2803

Brief Description: Concerning medical assistance mental health benefits.

Sponsors: Representatives Green, Dickerson, Cody, O'Brien, Clibborn, Appleton, Morrell, Moeller, Santos and Darneille.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • The Department of Social and Health Services will provide a mental health benefit that includes an evaluation and twelve visits per year to providers licensed to provide mental health services.

Hearing Date: 1/26/06

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

The Medicaid program provides an outpatient mental health benefit for enrollees. Services are provided by licensed psychiatrists. Other licensed mental health providers are not authorized to provide services under this benefit.

Summary of Bill:

The mental health benefit available through the Medicaid program may be provided by mental health providers licensed under Title 18 RCW.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 23, 2006.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.