The End Of IMD Exclusion?

Just last week the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) released proposed rules for Medicaid managed care programs for the first time since 2003. While there are many proposed rules, the one with significant implications for behavioral health is the prospect of a partial lift of the institution for mental disease (IMD) exclusion rule (see CMS Overhauls Medicaid Managed Care Regulations; Proposes End To IMD Exclusion For 15-Day Stays).

In short, the proposed rule allows federal financial participation if individuals between the ages of 21-64 are treated in an IMD for 15 days or less. By definition . . .