Institutions for Mental Diseases (IMD) Waivers

Optimizing Medicaid Funding to Promote Access in Behavioral Health

The IMD Exclusion Rule, one of the oldest carve-outs in Medicaid, restricts Medicaid reimbursement for inpatient behavioral health care. Since 2015 states have been able to request limited waivers of the IMD Exclusion Rule. These waivers allow states to claim FFP for inpatient behavioral health services under certain conditions for beneficiaries with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and/or Serious Mental Illness (SMI). Today, 40 states (and counting) are using at least a partial IMD waiver as part of their broader behavioral health strategy.

Obtaining an IMD Waiver can help states optimize Medicaid funding, expand crisis care capacity, and improve access to behavioral health treatment for individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorders. 

What Can A&M Provide to States Pursuing IMD Waivers?

  • A proven track record of helping states assess opportunities related to pursuing an IMD waiver
  • Proprietary analysis of all approved and pending waivers to support guidance to clients
  • Unparalleled human services transformation experience
  • World-class project management expertise
  • Deep understanding of stakeholder engagement

Learn More About IMD Waivers

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