This bill aims to increase the number of mental health providers in areas that currently have a shortage. It would provide additional Medicare payments to doctors, nurses, therapists, and other mental health professionals who provide services in these underserved communities.
Latest Action
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance.
AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
This bill aims to increase the number of mental health providers in areas that currently have a shortage. It would provide additional Medicare payments to doctors, nurses, therapists, and other mental health professionals who provide services in these underserved communities.
Last updated: 12/29/2025
Official Summary
Congressional Research Service summary
<p><b>More Behavioral Health Providers Act</b> <b>of 2023</b></p> <p>This bill provides for additional Medicare payments to health care practitioners who provide services in mental health professional shortage areas for individuals with mental health or substance use disorders. The bill applies to physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, clinical social workers, clinical psychologists, marriage and family therapists, and mental health counselors.</p>
Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
Increases Medicare payments to mental health providers working in shortage areas
Applies to a wide range of professionals including doctors, nurses, and therapists
Goal is to improve access to mental health and substance abuse treatment in underserved communities
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
If this bill becomes law, it could make it easier for people living in mental health professional shortage areas to access the care they need. More providers may choose to work in these communities, increasing the availability of mental health and substance abuse services. This could have a positive impact on individuals and families struggling with mental health or addiction issues in these underserved regions.
Policy Areas
Primary Policy Area
Health
Related Subjects
Government trust funds
Health care costs and insurance
Health personnel
Health programs administration and funding
Medicare
Mental health
Scope & Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction Level
federal
Congressional Session
119th Congress
Citation Reference
3157, 119th Congress (2025). "School Meals for Healthy Kids Act of 2025". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/118-s-3157
