HEA 1007 Summary

• Requires implementation of a centralized credentials verification organization for Medicaid providers using common applications, single credentialing decisions, recredentialing every 3 years, and National Committee for Quality Assurance accreditation by July 1, 2018.

• Allows the division of mental health and addiction to approve up to 9 additional opioid treatment programs operated by hospitals, institutions, or certified community mental health centers if a demonstrated need exists in the proposed location.

• Establishes a new employee substance abuse treatment program allowing employers to require drug education and addiction treatment as a condition of employment, with the division providing best practice guidelines and employer training resources.

• Permits wage assignments for employee drug education and addiction treatment services and provides employers liability protection for negligent hiring claims if they comply with the treatment program requirements.

• Expands insurance coverage requirements to include services provided by licensed addiction counselors, clinical addiction counselors, and marriage and family therapists for substance abuse and chemical dependency treatment.