Smaller inpatient behavioral health units could add beds without state review

Eligible units could increase their licensed bed count to no more than 30 without Health Department review or permission. This covers inpatient psychiatric or behavioral health units in general hospitals or other health facilities licensed by the Health Department, if the units have fewer than 30 licensed beds. The unit must send written notice stating its current bed count, how many beds it will add, and where they will go. The department could not require proof that more beds are needed. This change would start on the first day of the fourth month after enactment.

Covered contracts would set a payment rate of at least $675 per patient per day. This covers inpatient behavioral health care provided by units in general hospitals or other health facilities licensed by the Health Department. The rate must follow federal law. The minimum would rise by any increase in the New York–Newark–Jersey City area consumer price index over the 12 months ending September 30 of the previous year. The minimum would apply to contracts made on or after the first day of the fourth month after enactment. Annual increases would begin January 1 of the second calendar year after the law takes effect.