CMS issues proposed rule on mental health parity for Medicaid and CHIP

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services late this afternoon issued a proposed rule that would address the application of certain requirements set forth in the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 to Medicaid alternative benefit plans, the Children's Health Insurance Program and Medicaid managed care organizations. The MHPAEA requires insurance plans that offer mental health or substance use disorder benefits to provide them at parity with their medical/surgical benefits. “Improving quality and access to care impacts the health of our nation,” said Vikki Wachino, acting director of CMS’s Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services. “Whether private insurance, Medicaid or CHIP, all Americans deserve access to quality mental health services and substance use disorder services.” AHA members will receive a Special Bulletin with more information on the proposed rule.