Increasing Mental Health Options Act of 2026
Summary
This bill seeks to expand access to psychological and behavioral services under Medicare by introducing incentives and streamlining care delivery. It provides a 10 percent bonus payment to clinical psychologists who furnish services in designated Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), starting in 2026, to encourage practice in underserved communities.
The legislation also eliminates certain physician oversight and approval requirements for services provided by clinical psychologists. This allows individuals to be under the direct care or supervision of a clinical psychologist for qualified services in various settings, provided it is authorized under State law. These settings include Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facilities, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Partial Hospitalization Services, Home Health Services, and Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital Services.
A rule of construction clarifies that existing requirements for clinical consultation between clinical psychologists and physicians, while respecting patient confidentiality, remain in effect. The changes to oversight requirements will apply to services furnished on or after January 1, 2027.
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Bill texts
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Timeline
Latest companion bill action
S-5120: Increasing Mental Health Options Act of 2026Introduced in Senate
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
House of Representatives
Introduced in House
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