Community-based Mental Health Programs at Risk

To the Editor: 
The Department of Human Services (DHS) issued new Medicaid rates in its effort to transition the community-based mental health and substance use treatment system from deficit funding contracts to fee-for-service (FFS) reimbursement.
While some new rates will be satisfactory, many providers are projecting significant deficits that will put critical programs, such as outpatient services, including psychiatric services and community support services, at risk of closure or significant downsizing. More than 20,000 individuals with serious mental illnesses could lose services; they will have no other place to go. Mental health providers across the state are poised to lose between $900,000 and $6 million if the proposed rates remain unchanged. Waits for service will go from weeks to months.
It is appreciated that DHS is re-examining outpatient mental health services, community services and other rates, and offered providers the option of continuing contract funding for six months. However, if DHS proceeds with the transition to FFS without ensuring providers remain fiscally viable, many community-based mental health services could still be lost. Adequate reimbursement rates, independent oversight and transparency are needed. Otherwise, individuals could lose services, not receive quality care and ultimately require more costly healthcare services.
Cape Counseling Services needs the support of the community to advocate for reasonable rates that cover the cost of doing business. Your voice needs to be heard. Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) is sponsoring three regionally-based “Listening Sessions” to gather input from providers to inform their future planning process. In the Southern Region, the listening session is Thursday, June 2, 10 a.m. to noon at the Burlington County Emergency Services Training Center, 53 Academy Drive, Westhampton, N.J. 08060.