To amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to expand access to psychological and behavioral services.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · July 30, 2026
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
The Increasing Mental Health Options Act of 2026 amends Medicare to expand access to mental health services provided by clinical psychologists. The bill offers a 10 percent payment bonus to clinical psychologists who practice in rural and medically underserved areas starting in 2026, similar to incentives already available to physicians. The legislation also removes certain oversight requirements that previously mandated physician supervision of psychologist-provided services in various care settings, including outpatient rehabilitation facilities, nursing homes, partial hospitalization programs, home health services, and psychiatric hospitals, though psychologists must still consult with physicians when appropriate and authorized under state law. These changes take effect on January 1, 2027. The bill is designed to increase the availability of mental health treatment options and improve care access in underserved areas by making it easier for clinical psychologists to operate independently within their scope of practice.
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