Healthcare (Medicaid · Children)

HB 5568 amends West Virginia law to clarify how payments are made for services provided to children in court cases under Chapter 49 (child welfare and family proceedings). It requires courts to order the agency with legal custody of a child to pay for professional services (such as therapy or counseling) at Medicaid rates, or at a higher rate if services aren’t provided within 30 days. The bill also covers "socially necessary services" provided by approved entities, with reimbursement rates set by the Department of Human Services. This ensures state funds are used efficiently by requiring a direct connection between the services and the legal case.