By: Paige Britt, Follow South Jersey Intern
SOUTH JERSEY – New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy recently signed a bill that will increase expenses used towards behavioral health services provided to students and their families if they are on Medicaid.
New Jersey’s K-12 public schools may receive reimbursement for any money they have put out towards behavioral health services of students.
The Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services and its contracted managed care organizations will be in charge of reimbursing schools for the cost of behavioral health services given to students who are covered by Medicaid. There is currently a program in place called the Special Education Medicaid Initiative. This program reimburses public school districts a portion of the costs used to provide health-related services to students covered by Medicaid in special education programs.
Governor Murphy explained the importance of expanding the accessibility of mental health care to students in New Jersey.
“It’s undeniable that many young people are facing mental health challenges right now and would benefit from the support of compassionate, trained professionals,” Governor Murphy stated. “Through the work of my Administration, in collaboration with local, state, and national partners, we are taking decisive action to address the mental health needs of our youth. By ensuring schools will be reimbursed for the provision of behavioral health care services to students covered by Medicaid, this legislation will advance our ongoing efforts to expand affordability and access to the mental health support New Jersey children need.”
- What’s Good In South Jersey? The Water – With Isaiah Showell
- Atlantic County To Offer Free Flu Vaccines In October
- What’s Good In South Jersey? Summer Youth Employment Celebration – With Isaiah Showell
Follow South Jersey provides local journalism which highlights our diverse communities; fosters transparency through robust, localized, and vital reporting that holds leaders and institutions accountable; addresses critical information needs; supports people in navigating civic life; and equips people with the information necessary to partake in effective community engagement. If there is a story or event you think we should cover, please send your tips to news@followsouthjersey.com with “NEWS” in the subject line.
