Bill
SB 967
Bill SB 967 mandates health insurance, including Medicaid, to cover ketamine therapy for patients with treatment-resistant mental health disorders, improving access to care.
Bill Number: SB 967
Introduced On: January 17, 2025
Current Status: Referred to Health, Human Services (HHS), Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Economic Development (CPN/WAM)
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Appropriations, Health Insurance, Ketamine Therapy, Mandated Coverage, Medicaid
Bill SB 967 aims to enhance access to mental health treatment by mandating coverage for ketamine therapy under health insurance plans, including Medicaid. The bill recognizes the growing importance of innovative treatments for mental health conditions, particularly for individuals who have not responded to traditional therapies.
Mandated Coverage: The bill requires health insurance providers to cover ketamine therapy for patients diagnosed with specific mental health disorders, such as treatment-resistant depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Medicaid Inclusion: The legislation ensures that Medicaid programs will also provide coverage for ketamine therapy, thereby expanding access for low-income individuals who may benefit from this treatment.
Appropriations: The bill includes provisions for appropriations to support the implementation of mandated coverage, ensuring that necessary funding is allocated to facilitate this new requirement.
Patients: Individuals suffering from mental health disorders who may benefit from ketamine therapy will have improved access to this treatment option.
Healthcare Providers: Mental health professionals and clinics offering ketamine therapy will be directly impacted, as they will be able to bill insurance providers for their services.
Insurance Companies: Health insurance providers will need to adjust their policies and coverage plans to comply with the new mandate.
Medicaid Recipients: Low-income individuals enrolled in Medicaid will gain access to ketamine therapy, which may improve their mental health outcomes.
This bill represents a significant step towards integrating innovative mental health treatments into standard healthcare coverage, aiming to improve the quality of life for many individuals facing mental health challenges.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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