FutureEd Releases Resource on Medicaid’s Role in Sustaining Support for Students Mental Health

This week, FutureEd released a new resource that explores how Medicaid could help sustain mental health staff positions acquired using COVID relief money after ESSER III funds expires in 2024. The report suggests that Medicaid tools such as school-based health centers and community partnerships could bridge this funding gap with the cooperation of state and federal entities. According to the resource, several states have expanded their school Medicaid programs to allow qualified providers to bill for covered behavioral health services for Medicaid-enrolled students. However, most states have yet to expand their Medicaid plans and will be unable to access reimbursements unless changes are made. On the federal level, FutureEd notes the Biden Administration has directed the Department of Education to collaborate with the Department of Health and Human Services to develop guidance and offer technical assistance that could assist states in the expansion of their school Medicaid programs. President Biden’s proposed 2023 budget also directs significant funds to fortifying the behavioral health workforce and expanding access to community behavioral health clinics. 

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