Summary:
Meeting IMD Needs with Direction Act or the MIND Act
This bill temporarily allows states to receive federal Medicaid payment for services provided in institutions for mental diseases (IMDs) during the public health emergency relating to COVID-19 (i.e., coronavirus disease 2019) and for 180 days after the emergency ends.
Current law generally prohibits federal payment under Medicaid for services provided in IMDs for individuals under the age of 65 (although states may receive payment through certain mechanisms, such as through a Medicaid demonstration waiver).(Cosponsors)
ANGIE CRAIG’S POSITION: Representative Craig co-sponsored the bill on 07/06/20.
STATUS: Introduced 5/19/20 by Rep. Boyle, Brendan F. [D-PA-2]
INFORMATION RELATED TO THE BILL:
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“Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced legislation today to temporarily remove the exception that prevents Institutions of Mental Disease (IMD) from getting Medicaid support.
“The coronavirus is a public health crisis that impacts our entire health care system holistically,” said Congressman Boyle. “Our norms have been upended and, instead of being comforted by typical support systems, many of us have been isolated at home. This bill will help those with mental health, behavioral health, and substance use disorders get the necessary treatments they need, especially during this time of isolation and helplessness. Mental health has traditionally been stigmatized and it is critical for leaders to openly talk about it and address it.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic has upended our country. Our day to day lives have been drastically changed. At the same time, we must not forget those struggling with mental health, behavioral health, and substance use disorders,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “Since coming to Congress, I have prioritized access to care issues stemming from the IMD Exclusion. Mental health is an issue that affects our entire society. I am proud to partner with my good friend Congressman Boyle to increase access to crucial care during these difficult times.”
Currently, the federal government does not provide federal Medicaid funds to states for services rendered at these facilities. When a Medicaid-eligible individual is a patient in an IMD, the individual cannot receive Medicaid coverage for services provided by the IMD unless the individual is 65 or older.”
(Source: Rep. Brandon F Boyle Press Release, 05/19/20)
ADDITIONAL DETAIL:
Link to the text of the bill.
Link to bill information (support and opposition) on Countable.
Link to bill information on GovTrack.