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HB 746

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

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tiffany Alston and 12 co-sponsors

Maryland bill eliminates copays and deductibles for collaborative mental health care services in state insurance programs to reduce access barriers.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 615
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Bill Summary · HB 746

Legislative bill overview

HB 746 prohibits cost-sharing (copayments, coinsurance, deductibles) for collaborative care model services under Maryland's Medical Assistance Program and health insurance plans. The collaborative care model is an integrated mental health treatment approach where primary care providers, mental health specialists, and care coordinators work together in a single practice setting.

Why is this important

Mental health care access remains a significant barrier for low-income and insured Marylanders, and cost-sharing often prevents patients from seeking treatment. Removing financial barriers to collaborative care could increase utilization of evidence-based mental health services integrated within primary care, potentially reducing emergency department visits and hospitalizations while improving health outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance premium impacts: Removing cost-sharing requirements may increase overall health insurance premiums for all enrollees, shifting costs from point-of-care to monthly payments, which could disadvantage those who don't use mental health services.
  • Program sustainability: Medical Assistance Program expansion without dedicated revenue sources could strain state budgets or require cuts to other services, particularly given Maryland's existing fiscal constraints.
  • Coverage scope ambiguity: The bill's language doesn't clarify which specific services under the collaborative care model are covered, potentially creating disputes between providers, insurers, and patients about what constitutes eligible treatment.

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

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