H.R.3884 - Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3884, the Telemental Health Care Access Act of 2025, aims to amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to ensure coverage of mental and behavioral health services furnished through telehealth. The bill seeks to remove geographic restrictions and expand coverage to include behavioral health services. It was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committees on Energy and Commerce and Ways and Means.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is increased access to mental and behavioral health services, particularly for individuals in underserved areas or those who face barriers to in-person care. By removing geographic restrictions and expanding coverage, more people could receive timely and convenient mental health support. This could lead to improved mental health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs in the long run.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to mental and behavioral health services, especially in rural or underserved areas.
- Greater convenience and flexibility for patients seeking mental health care.
- Potential for early intervention and prevention of mental health issues.
- Reduced stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment through telehealth.
- Improved mental health outcomes and overall well-being for individuals and communities.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for reduced quality of care compared to in-person services.
- Concerns about data privacy and security in telehealth settings.
- Possible disparities in access for individuals with limited technology or internet access.
- Challenges in establishing a strong therapeutic relationship through telehealth.
- Risk of fraud and abuse in telehealth billing practices.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it seeks to improve access to healthcare services for the American people. While the Constitution does not explicitly mention healthcare, the expansion of telehealth services can be seen as a means to promote the general well-being of citizens. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).