Virginia’s inpatient mental healthcare geography post SB260

TL;DR

This study examines how Virginia's mental health policy reform affected inpatient psychiatric care access and utilization, especially for Medicaid-eligible populations.

Contribution

The study provides evidence on how SB260 influenced mental health care access and highlights the need to reconsider IMD exclusion laws.

Findings

Post-SB260, there was a notable increase in utilization of state-operated mental hospitals.

Regions with higher Medicaid eligibility saw significant changes in facility utilization patterns.

Proximity to facilities and demographic factors influence mental health care access.

Abstract

This study explores the impact of mental health policy reforms on geographic variations in inpatient psychiatric facility utilization and mental health outcomes in Virginia. Following the enactment of Senate Bill 260 (SB260), we observed significant changes in utilization patterns, particularly in regions with higher proportions of Medicaid-eligible populations. We identify nuanced factors influencing facility usage, including proximity to facilities and demographic characteristics, shedding light on the complex dynamics of mental health care access. Notably, our analysis indicates a notable increase in overall utilization of Virginia’s state-operated mental hospitals post-SB260, suggesting a greater fulfillment of unmet needs for inpatient care. Moreover, our research underscores the necessity to reconsider IMD exclusion laws, emphasizing the potential benefits of policy changes for underserved populations. This research contributes to mental health policy discussions by offering evidence-based considerations for future reforms aimed at improving access and equity in mental health care delivery in Virginia.