Behavioral health conditions, including mental health and substance use disorders, are among affect a disproportionate share of Medicaid members. While effective, evidence based treatments exist, factors such as workforce shortages, fragmented care systems, and persistent stigma, often prevent Medicaid members from accessing and staying connected to care. Medicaid decision-makers need evidence-based strategies to strengthen behavioral health services and improve access and outcomes.
To explore solutions, the Center for Health Care Strategies convened a webinar series in 2025 and 2026 highlighting innovative strategies to strengthen behavioral health services within Medicaid. Featuring state leaders, providers, and policy experts, these discussions showcased approaches to expanding access to care, supporting the behavioral health workforce, improving care coordination, and connecting individuals to evidence-based treatment. Together, these conversations showcase promising policies and practices that can help Medicaid members access the care they need and improve health outcomes.
Webinars included:
- Medicaid Innovation in Improving Access to Behavioral Health Care
July 15, 2025 – Millions of people rely on Medicaid for health coverage but still face significant barriers to accessing mental health and substance use treatment, particularly in rural and underserved communities. In this virtual panel, state leaders from Colorado, Massachusetts, and Wyoming discussed how they are using Medicaid policy to strengthen behavioral health systems and improve access to high-quality care. - Innovative Medicaid Strategies to Enhance the Behavioral Health Care Workforce
October 7, 2025 – While Medicaid covers a broad range of behavioral health services, workforce shortages continue to hinder access. In this panel, experts from California, Oregon, and Massachusetts outlined strategies to strengthen the behavioral health workforce through expanding the roles of community health workers, peers, and other paraprofessionals, investing in workforce development, streamlining licensing, and more. - Innovations in Substance Use Care for Medicaid Members: A No Wrong Door Approach
May 6, 2026 – About 21 percent of Medicaid members are estimated to have an SUD, and many face barriers to treatment. In this webinar, speakers from Maine, Massachusetts, and New Jersey shared innovations underway in their states to create a “no wrong door approach” and connect Medicaid members to appropriate, evidence-based treatment across entry points in emergency response, correctional settings, primary care, and through community-based services.
