The Mental Health Access and Provider Support Act of 2026 increases Medicare reimbursement rates for mental health services provided by psychologists, raising their payment from 75 percent to 85 percent of the standard fee schedule amount. This change is designed to improve access to mental health care for Medicare beneficiaries—primarily seniors aged 65 and older—by making it more financially viable for psychologists to accept Medicare patients. The bill affects mental health providers, particularly psychologists who treat Medicare patients, and aims to address potential shortages in mental health services. The increased reimbursement rates take effect on January 1, 2027, and the bill does not specify dedicated new funding, instead adjusting existing Medicare payment mechanisms. The legislation is sponsored by a bipartisan group of senators and has been referred to the Senate Committee on Finance for consideration.
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