California launches BH Connect program to improve behavioral health access

The recent HCAI Webinar on the Medi-Cal Behavioral Health Student Loan Repayment Program (SLRP) provided crucial insights into the application process and eligibility criteria for potential applicants. The meeting, held by the Department of Health Care Access and Information in California, focused on how the program aims to enhance access to behavioral health services across the state.

Key discussions highlighted that the application process will not operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Instead, all applications submitted within the designated window will be assessed collectively. Eligibility will be determined based on specific criteria, including the type of practitioner, the nature of educational debt, and the settings in which services are provided. A scoring mechanism will be employed to evaluate applicants, with potential preferences given to those serving underserved geographic areas or populations with severe mental health needs.

The program is part of the broader BH Connect initiative, which aims to improve the continuum of care for individuals with significant behavioral health challenges. This initiative is supported by funding from the Behavioral Health Services Act, emphasizing the focus on specialty behavioral health practitioners.

During the webinar, questions arose regarding the inclusion of school psychologists as eligible professionals. Currently, school psychologists do not qualify under the program's criteria, although further guidance will be provided as the program launches. Additionally, participants were informed that applicants must be Medi-Cal providers to qualify for the program, a requirement stemming from federal regulations governing the use of Medicaid funding for workforce development.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the HCAI team to continue refining the program's details and addressing participant inquiries as they arise. This initiative represents a significant step towards bolstering California's behavioral health workforce and ensuring that Medicaid members receive the necessary support.