Mental Health Access and Provider Support Act of 2026
Sponsored By: Representative Fitzpatrick, Brian K. [R-PA-1]
Introduced
Summary
Raises Medicare payments for certain psychologist services to 85% of the physician fee schedule. This bill would revise two Medicare payment rules so specific psychology-related services are paid at 85 percent of the fee schedule amount under section 1848 instead of the prior 75 percent formula.
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- Medicare beneficiaries: Could see better access to mental health care if higher reimbursement encourages more psychologists to accept Medicare. This is the bill's stated aim.
- Psychologists and mental health providers: Receive higher reimbursement for the services covered by the amended subparagraphs, increasing the payment rate from 75% to 85% of the fee schedule.
- Medicare program and timing: Changes apply to items and services furnished on or after January 1, 2027 and amend the payment calculations in section 1833(a)(1), subparagraphs (F)(ii) and (FF), referencing the fee schedule in section 1848.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Higher Medicare pay for psychologists
This bill would raise Medicare payment rates for certain psychologist services. Medicare would pay psychologists 85% of the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule amount under section 1848 instead of 75% for those covered services. The change would apply to items and services furnished on or after January 1, 2027. If more psychologists accept Medicare because of higher pay, beneficiaries may find it easier to get appointments. This change would not give beneficiaries cash.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Fitzpatrick, Brian K. [R-PA-1]
PA • R
Cosponsors
Rep. Tonko, Paul [D-NY-20]
NY • D
Sponsored 3/25/2026
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
View on Congress.gov