The Maryland Department of Health has announced a significant expansion of mental health services available in schools to children enrolled in Medicaid. Previously, Medicaid-covered mental health services in public schools were only available to students with approved Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs). The new policy allows all students enrolled in Medicaid—approximately 650,000 children statewide—to receive vital mental health support directly at school.
This initiative enables Local Education Agencies to bill Medicaid for a broader range of behavioral health services, including diagnostic evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy sessions. Licensed school psychologists, newly added as Medicaid providers under this expansion, and licensed clinical social workers will deliver these critical services directly within schools.
Maryland Secretary of Health Dr. Laura Herrera Scott emphasized the importance of this expansion, saying, “This expansion is a step forward in addressing the mental health needs of Maryland’s students. We’re breaking down barriers to mental health care and making sure that every student has access to the support they need to succeed in and out of the classroom.”
This effort received additional momentum through a three-year, $2.5 million cooperative agreement from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which was awarded to Maryland and 17 other states. The funds will support expanding school-based mental health services. The Maryland Department of Health is working closely with the Maryland State Department of Education and a statewide coalition, including representatives from local jurisdictions and the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission, to implement the new policy effectively.
State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright highlighted the strong connection between students’ emotional health and academic performance, stating, “When we expand access to mental health services, we strengthen the depth of support available to students. Social-emotional wellness is directly tied to academic success. We appreciate our partnership with the Maryland Department of Health on this important initiative.”
For additional information about Medicaid’s role in school-based mental health services, the public can visit the CMS Medicaid & School Based Services website.
The Maryland Department of Health and Maryland State Department of Education continue their collaborative effort to enhance student well-being and success across the state.
