DHCS behavioral-health state plan proposal
Published November 4, 2026 · Coverage October 25–31, 2026, Pacific · Medium priority
On October 29, 2026, California DHCS issued a revised public notice for proposed Alternative Benefit Plan State Plan Amendment 26-0034. DHCS says the proposal would clarify behavioral health treatment policy, including utilization-management controls, and support program integrity. The revised notice applies only to 26-0034; DHCS says the June 30 notice for Medicaid State Plan Amendment 26-0033 remains unchanged. The notice states a July 1, 2026 proposed effective date subject to CMS approval; it does not establish approval or identify the specific utilization controls.
Suggested owner and action: Behavioral-health policy and contracting teams can monitor CMS’s disposition and obtain the actual amendment and utilization-management provisions before changing contracts or workflows.
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