Plain Language Summary
# ADAPT Act Summary **What the Bill Does** The ADAPT Act would expand Medicare coverage to include mental health services provided by advanced psychology trainees—graduate students and residents in psychology training programs. Currently, Medicare doesn't routinely cover services from these trainees. The bill would also require federal health officials to create guidance helping states decide whether to cover these services under Medicaid and CHIP (the children's health insurance program). **Who It Affects** This bill would primarily benefit patients seeking mental health care, potentially increasing access to therapy and psychological services at lower costs. It would also affect psychology training programs and trainees themselves, as it could create new employment opportunities and funding sources for graduate-level psychology students.
States would need to evaluate their own coverage policies based on federal guidance. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Rep. Troy Balderson, a Republican from Ohio.
CRS Official Summary
Accelerating the Development of Advanced Psychology Trainees Act or the ADAPT ActThis bill provides for Medicare coverage of services that are furnished by advanced psychology trainees. It also requires the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to issue guidance for states on coverage options for such services under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Latest Action
Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.