An Act to promote high value and evidence-based behavioral health care

This bill directs the Massachusetts executive office of health and human services to create a committee that annually studies the need for inpatient psychiatric beds and analyzes data on patient populations, such as those with autism or severe behavioral issues. The committee will produce a yearly report by December 31 that includes recommendations for reducing emergency department boarding and suggested legislation to address these findings. Additionally, the bill establishes a special commission to examine how to expand access to specialty inpatient beds for adults and youth, review current funding methods, and propose a new rate structure to ensure adequate supply of high-intensity care. This commission includes representatives from various state agencies and healthcare organizations and must submit its findings and potential laws within one year of the bill's effective date.