Mental Health Access Act

Summary#

This bill changes how Medicare pays for some mental health services. It amends section 1833(a)(1) of the Social Security Act. The bill replaces language that tied certain psychologist payments to "75 percent of the amount determined for payment of a psychologist under clause (L)" with a rule that those payments equal "85 percent of the fee schedule amount provided under section 1848." The change applies to items and services furnished on or after January 1, 2027. The bill was introduced in the House on March 25, 2026, and was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Ways and Means.

What it means for you#

• For Medicare beneficiaries: The bill changes how some mental health services are paid for under Medicare. It does not by itself describe changes to eligibility, covered services, or patient cost-sharing.
• For mental health providers: The bill sets certain payment amounts at 85% of the Medicare physician fee schedule (section 1848) instead of the prior 75% reference. The bill text identifies psychologists in the relevant payment language.

Expenses#

No publicly available information on budgetary costs or savings is included in the bill text or provided metadata.

Proponents' View#

No publicly available information in the bill text about supporters' arguments. The bill was sponsored by Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Paul Tonko (with additional cosponsors Becca Balint, Josh Riley, Maggie Goodlander, and Josh Gottheimer).

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information in the bill text about opponents' arguments or objections.