H.R. 4484: Accelerating the Development of Advanced Psychology Trainees Act

The Accelerating the Development of Advanced Psychology Trainees Act, referred to as the ADAPT Act, aims to enhance access to mental and behavioral health services for individuals enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The main components of the bill include:

1. Coverage of Psychological Services

The bill proposes several amendments to the Social Security Act to allow for reimbursement of psychological services provided by advanced psychology trainees. Key points include:

• Definition of Advanced Psychology Trainees: These trainees are classified as either doctoral interns or postdoctoral residents who are under supervision by licensed clinical psychologists.
• General Supervision Requirement: Services can be billed under the supervision of a licensed psychologist, but the psychologist does not need to be present during the service delivery.
• Effective Date: The changes would apply to services provided one year after the enactment of the bill.

2. Creation of a Modifier Code

Within one year of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of Health and Human Services is tasked with developing a specific billing code, labeled as the "GC" modifier. This code will identify services rendered by advanced psychology trainees, ensuring proper registration and billing for their provided services.

3. Guidance for State Programs

The bill also mandates that, within one year of enactment, the Secretary of Health and Human Services provide guidance to states on how to integrate coverage for services delivered by advanced psychology trainees into Medicaid and CHIP. The guidance will include:

• Legal mechanisms for enabling coverage under these programs.
• Recommended billing codes and modifiers pertinent to these services.
• Examples of states that have successfully implemented coverage for these trainees through waivers or program adjustments.

Overall Goals

The overarching goal of the ADAPT Act is to expand access to psychological services, particularly in underserved areas, by utilizing the skills of advanced trainees. This may aid in addressing mental health service shortages and improving outcomes for beneficiaries of Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP.

Relevant Companies

None found