Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration

CMHS Consumer Affairs E-News
August 16, 2007, Vol. 07-126

Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Releases State Medicaid Director Letter on Peer Support

On August 15, CMS issued a letter to State Medicaid Directors that provides guidance to States on using peer support services under the Medicaid program. They recognize that the mental health field has seen a big shift in the paradigm of care over the last few years, and that there is great emphasis on recovery from even the most serious mental illnesses when persons have access in their communities to treatment and supports that are tailored to their needs.

The background section of the letter that discusses policy issues related to peer support notes that States are increasingly interested in covering peer support providers as a distinct provider type for the delivery of counseling and other support services to Medicaid eligible adults with mental illnesses and/or substance use disorders. Peer support services are an evidenced-based mental health model of care which consists of a qualified peer support provider who assists individuals with their recovery from mental illness and substance use disorders. CMS reaffirms its commitment to State flexibility, increased innovation, consumer choice, self-direction, recovery and consumer protection through approval of peer support services. The letter provides policy guidance on requirements for supervision, care-coordination, and minimum training criteria of peer support providers. For the complete letter, see web site http://www.cms.hhs.gov/SMDL/downloads/SMD081507A.pdf.

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The Center for Mental Health Services is a component of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, United States Department of Health and Human Services.