WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 428

Maryland Medical Assistance Program and Health Insurance - Collaborative Care Model - Cost Sharing Prohibition

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Malcolm Augustine

SB 428 eliminates copayments and deductibles for Medicaid patients using integrated mental health services through the Collaborative Care Model in Maryland.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 614
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 428

Legislative bill overview

SB 428 prohibits cost-sharing (copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles) for patients using the Collaborative Care Model (CCM) under Maryland's Medical Assistance Program. The CCM is an integrated primary care approach where primary care physicians coordinate with mental health specialists to treat patients with behavioral health conditions. The bill ensures that eligible Medicaid beneficiaries can access these coordinated mental health services without financial barriers at the point of care.

Why is this important

Mental health conditions often go untreated due to cost barriers, and integrated care models like CCM have demonstrated improved outcomes and reduced overall healthcare costs. By eliminating cost-sharing, the bill aims to increase access to mental health services for low-income Marylanders while potentially reducing emergency department visits and hospitalizations. This aligns with national trends toward integrated behavioral health in primary care settings.

Potential points of contention

  • State budget impact: Removing cost-sharing could increase Medicaid utilization and costs; fiscal analysis will determine whether efficiency gains offset increased service volume
  • Insurance market fairness: Other health plans might resist similar mandates, creating disparities between Medicaid and commercial insurance patient obligations
  • Implementation complexity: Determining which services qualify as CCM and ensuring provider networks can accommodate increased demand without prior authorization delays

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

Sign in to ask a question.