AB 384: Health care coverage: mental health and substance use disorders: inpatient admissions.

The California Mental Health Protection Act aims to improve healthcare coverage for mental health and substance use disorders. Starting January 1, 2027, health care service plans and insurance policies will no longer require prior authorization for: enrollees or insureds to be admitted for medically necessary 24-hour care in inpatient settings medically necessary health care services provided to enrollees or insureds while admitted for that care. This change is intended to ensure timely access to essential care for individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. The state will assess administrative or civil penalties for violations, and the Medi-Cal program will also be exempt from prior authorization requirements.