The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released two new pieces of guidance on expanding access to children’s behavioral health services through the EPSDT benefit and expanding access to school-based services through Medicaid. In the behavioral health guidance, CMS reminds states that, under the EPSDT benefit, behavioral health services must be provided when necessary to treat an identified condition. CMS also highlights other coverage authorities and state strategies for providing high-quality behavioral health services to children and youth. In the school-based services guidance (SBS), CMS reviews relevant federal regulations and requirements, including the provision of SBS through managed care and via telehealth. The guidance also highlights best practices for implementing or expanding school-based services.
