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SB 244

Revise laws related to health insurance coverage of behavioral health screening

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Yakawich

Montana bill mandates health insurers cover behavioral health screenings without cost-sharing to increase preventive mental health care access.

(S) Veto Override Failed in Legislature
#insurance #health #mentalillnessorincapacity
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Bill Summary · SB 244

Legislative bill overview

SB 244 revises Montana's health insurance laws to mandate coverage of behavioral health screening services. The bill requires insurers to cover preventive behavioral health assessments without cost-sharing barriers for enrolled members. This appears designed to increase access to mental health screenings as part of routine preventive care.

Why is this important

Mental health conditions often go undiagnosed and untreated due to cost barriers and lack of screening. Mandating insurance coverage for behavioral health screenings could identify depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and other conditions earlier, potentially reducing overall healthcare costs through prevention. However, this also expands insurance mandates, which typically increases premiums.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Insurance mandates increase premiums for all policyholders; unclear whether benefits justify the expense increase
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill's specific definition of "behavioral health screening" and which assessments qualify could affect implementation costs and coverage disputes
  • Provider capacity: Increased screening demand may overwhelm existing mental health providers, potentially reducing care quality without accompanying increases in provider supply

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

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