NJ A4482

Creates a statewide tele-psychiatry program within the New Jersey Department of Human Services to provide real-time video/audio psychiatric assessments and treatment for patients experiencing mental health or substance abuse crises at hospitals.

Requires DHS to submit an implementation plan within nine months and achieve full statewide implementation within three years, with the department contracting with a partner organization to administer the program.

Mandates annual reporting to the Governor and Legislature on program metrics including number of participating sites, psychiatric assessments conducted, patient length of stay, and involuntary commitment recommendations.

Appropriates $4 million from the General Fund to establish and operate the program, with DHS providing ongoing oversight, quarterly financial reviews, and annual site visits.

Requires the Commissioner of Human Services and Commissioner of Health to adopt rules specifying patient safety requirements, equipment standards, and payment rates for tele-psychiatry services.