NJ S560

Establishes a pilot program in the New Jersey Department of Human Services to coordinate behavioral health care for emergency department patients with mild-to-moderate mental health issues, emotional disturbances, or substance use disorders who don't require inpatient admission.

Requires selection of two hospitals in each Regional Health Hub to participate, prioritizing hospitals not currently affiliated with the Early Intervention Support Services program and those connected to health information networks.

Participating hospitals must refer qualifying emergency department patients to community-based behavioral health treatment and support services, including medication-assisted treatment, housing assistance, and cash assistance programs.

Regional Health Hubs will provide administrative support and develop protocols for timely referrals, patient follow-up, transportation coordination, and scheduling of primary care appointments.

Requires the Commissioner of Human Services to apply for federal Medicaid waivers to secure federal funding, with State Medicaid and NJ FamilyCare programs covering behavioral health services provided under the pilot program.