CONCORD, N.H. (AP) New Hampshire health officials say they’re planning to apply for a waiver from the federal government that would loosen restrictions on how Medicaid dollars could be spent on mental health treatment in the state.
New Hampshire Public Radio reports a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services says staff are working on an application for a waiver. The spokesperson said there will be opportunities for public comment before the application is completed.
Federal law currently prohibits the use of Medicaid dollars to pay for mental health care at facilities with more than 16 beds, to prevent the so-called “warehousing” of mental health patients with public funds.
Earlier this month the Trump administration announced it would allow states to apply for exemptions to that requirement, as long as they meet certain other criteria.
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