Massachusetts policy makers are increasing their focus on behavioral health treatment and how this relates to overall state health care spending. This issue was heavily discussed at the Health Policy Commission’s (HPC) annual Cost Trends Hearings on October 17th and 18th and during meetings throughout the year, reflecting the growing concern in Massachusetts health care.

In written testimony submitted before the Cost Trends hearings, both payers and providers noted their focus on integrating behavioral health into overall care. Payers such as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts and Neighborhood Health Plan discussed partnerships with behavioral health providers as a way to increase the adoption of alternative payment methodologies (APMs). Various payers also mentioned behavioral health collaborations in their strategies to increase access to pharmacologic treatment for substance use disorder. Nearly all providers who submitted testimony identified their top strategies for integrating behavioral health with overall care, as well as any potential barriers. Many highlighted integrated behavioral health services models, increased use of telehealth, and universal screenings as their top strategies to enhance this area. Providers pointed to insufficient reimbursements and incentives and the lack of publicly available claims data as the major barriers to integrating behavioral health.