Establishes pilot program to refer certain emergency department patients for development of coordinated behavioral health care treatment and support services plan.
Impact
The implementation of SB 560 will require the DHS to select two hospitals in each Regional Health Hub of New Jersey for participation in the pilot program. These selected hospitals will be required to refer patients with behavioral health issues to various support services within the community. This initiative seeks to address a gap in care for individuals in crisis, potentially decreasing the number of patients who might otherwise remain untreated or be admitted unnecessarily to inpatient facilities.
Summary
Senate Bill 560 aims to establish a pilot program under the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) designed to improve the coordination of treatment for individuals facing behavioral health challenges. The bill specifically targets patients presenting in emergency departments with mild-to-moderate mental health issues, emotional disturbances, and substance use disorders. The program's goal is to ensure these individuals are effectively referred to appropriate community-based behavioral health treatment services when they do not meet the criteria for inpatient care.
Contention
A notable point of contention surrounding the bill is the requirement for hospitals to coordinate with specific behavioral health networks and to develop protocols for timely referrals. Opponents may argue about the feasibility of effectively managing such referrals within emergency settings, and questions may arise regarding the adequacy of resources and infrastructure at hospitals to meet the demands of these protocols. Additionally, there may be concerns about ensuring that all participating healthcare providers are adequately supported and compensated for their roles in this initiative.
Implementation
The bill also mandates that the Commissioner of Human Services apply for any necessary state plan amendments to secure federal funding for Medicaid and NJ FamilyCare programs to cover behavioral health services provided through the pilot. This financial backing is crucial for the sustainability of the program and underscores the state's commitment to expanding access to mental health care services across its healthcare system.
Carry Over
Establishes pilot program to refer certain emergency department patients for development of coordinated behavioral health care treatment and support services plan.
Carry Over
Establishes pilot program to refer certain emergency department patients for development of coordinated behavioral health care treatment and support services plan.
Same As
Establishes pilot program to refer certain emergency department patients for development of coordinated behavioral health care treatment and support services plan.
Changes the name of "applied behavior assistant analyst" to "assistant applied behavior analyst" and makes several changes to provide consistency in the certification language for behavioral analysts.
Changes the name of "applied behavior assistant analyst" to "assistant applied behavior analyst" and makes several changes to provide consistency in the certification language for behavioral analysts.
Health: licensing; behavioral health transportation licensing requirements; provide for. Amends 1974 PA 258 (MCL 330.1001 - 330.2106) by adding ch. 9B. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0927'26
Health occupations: health professionals; limited license for certain individuals engaging in the practice of applied behavior analysis; provide for. Amends secs. 16343a, 18253 & 18257 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16343a et seq.).