Summary
Behavioral health services includes both mental health and substance use disorder treatment. Both are underutilized in California, especially among Medicare beneficiaries. It is estimated that only one-third of adult Californians with mental health conditions reported receiving treatment, counseling, or prescription medication. According to the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) in 2021, only 8.8% of Californians age 65 and over saw a health care professional for mental health or substance use disorders.
Barriers to receiving Medicare-covered treatment include: (1) a lack of awareness that Medicare covers behavioral health services; (2) a need to increase the number of behavioral health providers enrolled in Medicare; and (3) the stigma that may be associated with seeking treatment.
This fact sheet covers:
- Behavioral health services covered by Medicare, including treatment for mental health conditions (e.g., depression or anxiety), significant mental health needs (e.g., schizophrenia or bipolar disorder), and substance use disorders (e.g., alcohol or opioid dependence).
- How to enroll as a Medicare provider and participate in Medicare.
- How providers can help Medicare beneficiaries access care.
- 2024 changes in Medicare for behavioral health.
