Iowa SF478 expands Medicaid and CHIP coverage for mental health services in school-based settings.

Iowa SF478 mandates the Department of Health and Human Services to request approval for Medicaid state plan amendments to cover mental health services in school-based settings. These services, including family, group, and individual therapy, prevention and evaluation services, and case management, must be provided regardless of a formal mental health diagnosis. The bill aligns with the federal Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and CMS guidance, ensuring services are available to all children enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP, including those without an individualized education program or plan.

Iowa SF478 expands Medicaid and CHIP coverage for mental health services in school-based settings.

Iowa SF478 mandates the Department of Health and Human Services to request approval for Medicaid state plan amendments to cover mental health services in school-based settings. These services, including family, group, and individual therapy, prevention and evaluation services, and case management, must be provided regardless of a formal mental health diagnosis. The bill aligns with the federal Bipartisan Safer Communities Act and CMS guidance, ensuring services are available to all children enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP, including those without an individualized education program or plan.