Managed Care
Impact on Community Mental Health Centers
Community mental health centers are currently experiencing increased administrative burdens related to the utilization of managed care, a relatively new service model instituted by the State of Indiana and Family and Social Services Agency (FSSA) in 2007. These mounting administrative costs are a result of services that community mental health centers provide clients using both the Hoosier Healthwise and Care Select Programs. The increased costs related to carrying out the administrative responsibilities under managed care has the net effect of reducing staff available for direct treatment of clients. Crucial resources are spent processing forms and contacting MCO’s for questions, concerns, clarifications and appeals instead of delivering mental health services to clients.
For managed care to be effective in Indiana, more consideration needs to be given to the issues involved in its implementation. The stated goals for managed care need to consider the impact on mental health providers as the designated and licensed medical expert involved in the direct delivery of service.
For more information about Managed Care in Indiana and additional resources, read:
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