Medicare would cover more social work care in nursing homes

What does this do?

This bill would let clinical social workers bill Medicare directly for services given to residents of skilled nursing facilities, starting January 1, 2026. Right now, those costs are bundled into a flat payment, which can limit access to care. The bill also expands covered services to include mental health support for people dealing with physical health conditions.

Who does it affect?

Medicare patients living in skilled nursing facilities who need mental health support are most directly affected. Clinical social workers who provide care in those settings are also affected.

Why does it matter?

Currently, bundling mental health services into a flat facility payment can reduce how often residents receive those services. Removing that restriction would change how clinical social workers are paid for this care.

Where does it stand?