02/17/2023
See below for an announcement from AAMFT that was posted in December, 2022 in regards to Medicare and MFTs!!
"Today, the Mental Health Access Improvement Act was officially passed by both houses of Congress as part of its end of year omnibus package. It is expected that President Biden will sign this legislation shortly, officially making it law.
“For over three decades, tens of thousands of MFTs, clients, supporters, and friends have ardently advocated for the inclusion of necessary services for seniors and recognition of the abilities of our vibrant profession. This is truly a monumental and historic victory for all involved and I cannot express enough what an achievement this is for our association and our profession,” remarked AAMFT President Shelley Hanson on the bill’s passage.
AAMFT’s CEO Tracy Todd shared, “As a practicing MFT, and later as AAMFT’s CEO, I cannot emphasize how important this long-awaited day is. MFTs as Medicare-eligible providers has been the number one federal advocacy goal of AAMFT for nearly half of my entire professional life and to see it finally realized, after years of hard work by so many volunteers and staff, is truly an amazing moment.”
Bill sponsor Rep. Mike Thompson commented, "Access to mental health services is vital to the health and well-being of our communities, and without marriage and family therapists, these services would be limited. I am proud that my legislation to make Medicare cover mental health services provided by counselors and marriage and family therapists was included in the government funding bill. This permanent expansion will ensure broad access to care for communities across the country, and I look forward to seeing more Americans take advantage of these mental health services."
What Happens Next?
This law officially goes into effect January 1, 2024 however, there will be quite a bit of work to be done in 2023 ensuring that the intentions of the legislation are put into place properly and advocating for MFT inclusion in all aspects.
Keep an eye on your email in January for opportunities to connect with AAMFT Staff to discuss next steps. And in the meantime, please consider joining the AAMFT Family TEAM, our grassroots advocacy network, and making a donation to the AAMFT Practice Protection Fund – two key elements in our successful advocacy for this historic action."
