The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) announced on July 17 final federal approval of an amendment to the state’s Medicaid Transformation waiver, ensuring the state can continue treating substance use disorders in the most appropriate way.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approved HCA’s request to receive federal Medicaid funding for services provided to Apple Health (Medicaid) clients to treat opioid addiction and other substance use disorders when those services are offered in facilities called institutions for mental disease (IMDs).
Federal rules restrict the use of Medicaid funds for treatment in IMDs, defined as facilities larger than 16 beds and primarily engaging in the treatment of mental health or substance use disorders. Several inpatient and mental health and residential facilities in Washington are considered IMDs, and approval of this amendment allows the state to maintain and expand access to inpatient and residential treatment.
