NC H477

Directs the Department of Health and Human Services to evaluate the financial impact and feasibility of establishing Medicaid reimbursement for ambulance transports of Medicaid recipients experiencing behavioral health crises to behavioral health clinics or alternative appropriate care locations.

Requires EMS Systems seeking reimbursement to demonstrate that EMS providers have received appropriate training in behavioral health crisis care and maintain at least one partnership with a receiving facility capable of providing appropriate care.

Mandates EMS Systems include in their EMS System Plan a report on patient experiences and outcomes, with rules to be adopted by the Division of Health Regulation, Office of Emergency Medical Services.

Requires the Division of Medical Assistance to submit a report to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Medicaid and NC Health Choice by December 1, 2017, including evaluation of financial impact, implementation plan, and timeline for any necessary State Plan amendments or waivers.

Authorizes submission of State Plan amendments or waivers to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, with implementation contingent upon CMS approval.