Home-Based Telemental Health Care Act of 2025
Summary
The Home-Based Telemental Health Care Act of 2025 aims to improve mental health and substance use services in rural and underserved areas, particularly for those in farming, fishing, and forestry occupations. It establishes a grant program for eligible entities to deliver home-based telemental health services. The bill also mandates the development of metrics to assess the quality and impact of these services and requires reports to Congress on the program's effectiveness.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase access to mental health and substance use services for individuals in rural areas and specific occupations. It could also lead to improved mental health outcomes and reduced substance use rates in these populations. The program's success will depend on the effective implementation and oversight by the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to mental health services in underserved rural areas.
- Improved mental health outcomes for individuals in farming, fishing, and forestry occupations.
- Development of metrics to measure the effectiveness of telemental health services.
- Support for infrastructure to enhance the delivery of telemental health services, including broadband access and technology for patients.
- Potential reduction in healthcare costs due to the increased use of telehealth.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for uneven implementation and access to services across different rural areas.
- Challenges in ensuring the quality and privacy of telemental health services.
- Possible limitations in the scope of services offered through telemental health.
- Risk of increased healthcare costs if the program is not managed efficiently.
- Dependence on technology and broadband access, which may not be available to all individuals.
Constitutional Alignment
The Home-Based Telemental Health Care Act of 2025 appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly the General Welfare Clause (Preamble). This clause allows Congress to enact legislation that promotes the health and well-being of the population. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).