Provides that licensed independent clinical social workers be able to enroll and bill Medicaid directly for covered services provided to adults with Medicaid fee-for-service coverage.

What This Bill Does

This bill would allow Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers (LICSWs) in Rhode Island to sign up directly with Medicaid and submit their own billing claims for mental health and counseling services they provide to adult Medicaid patients. Currently, these social workers may need to bill through a supervising doctor, a clinic, or another type of healthcare organization rather than being reimbursed directly by the state's Medicaid program.

Who It Affects

This bill primarily affects two groups: Licensed Independent Clinical Social Workers and the adults they serve who have Medicaid fee-for-service coverage. Fee-for-service Medicaid means the state pays directly for each individual service a patient receives, as opposed to managed care plans where a private insurer handles the coverage. If passed, social workers in private practice or other independent settings could get paid directly for their work with these patients, potentially making it easier for them to accept Medicaid clients. Adult Medicaid recipients could benefit from having access to a broader network of mental health providers.

Where Things Stand

The bill was introduced in the Rhode Island Senate and referred to the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. The committee has recommended holding the bill for further study, meaning it is not moving forward right away. A hearing is scheduled for March 3, 2026, where lawmakers will likely examine questions about costs to the Medicaid program and any other implementation details before deciding next steps.