Medicaid offers mental health services (also called behavioral health services) for many of its members. However, Medicaid coverage will vary by state and individual plan. Some plans may require a referral, implement a deductible, or charge co-pays for services. Mental health care can be provided in a variety of settings and treatment facilities, including outpatient, residential treatment, and inpatient. Medicaid treatment services for behavioral health also include substance use disorder treatment.
For those in long term care facilities, Medicaid covers mental health treatment for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Covered services also include medication management and case management.
For children under 21, Medicaid offers Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT), which provides comprehensive behavioral health benefits, amongst other things. This initiative is federally mandated, so each state must include it in their state plan. The program ensures that children receive age-appropriate care services and interventions, if necessary. Under this program, children with mental illnesses can receive support services from behavioral health providers, such as therapists, psychiatrists, and primary care doctors.
For more information on Medicaid services in your area, visit your state’s official website, or the federal government’s Medicaid.gov site. Before scheduling with a provider, it is important to check your health coverage and ensure they accept state Medicaid and are in-network with your health plan. However, Medicaid enrollees can expect that their health insurance will include eligibility for mental health services.