CMS issues guidance on IMD treatment option for substance use disorders

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services yesterday released guidance for state Medicaid agencies implementing Section 5052 of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act of 2018, which gives states the option to cover substance use disorder treatment and withdrawal management services for adults who reside primarily in an eligible institution for mental diseases. The guidance provides information on the new state plan option, including requirements related to beneficiary and provider eligibility, clinical screenings, continuum of care, care transitions, and maintenance of existing expenditures.