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Bill

HB 361

An Act amending the act of April 9, 1929 (P.L.343, No.176), known as The Fiscal Code, providing for Collaborative Care Model and Primary Care Behavioral Health Model Implementation Program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Jo Daley and 5 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania establishes integrated behavioral health programs in primary care settings to improve access to mental health and substance abuse treatment alongside routine medical care.

Referred to Human Services
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Bill Summary · HB 361

Legislative bill overview

HB 361 amends Pennsylvania's Fiscal Code to establish a Collaborative Care Model and Primary Care Behavioral Health Model Implementation Program. The bill creates a framework for integrating behavioral health services with primary care in medical settings, allowing patients to receive mental health and substance use treatment alongside routine medical care.

Why is this important

This legislation addresses Pennsylvania's healthcare access gap by embedding behavioral health services directly in primary care clinics, reducing wait times and stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment separately. Integrating these services is evidence-based practice that improves health outcomes, particularly for underserved populations who may not otherwise seek behavioral health care.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanism: The bill doesn't specify how the program will be funded or what state resources will support implementation, raising questions about budget impact
  • Regulatory authority: Questions about which state agency oversees the program, sets standards, and ensures quality control across participating providers
  • Reimbursement structure: Uncertainty about how insurers will be required to pay for integrated behavioral health services and whether this increases costs for consumers or the state

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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