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Behavioral health providers say Oregon Health Authority rule puts patients at risk

Behavioral health providers in Oregon are expressing concerns over a new Oregon Health Authority (OHA) rule that they believe puts patients at risk by limiting access to care. The rule, which went into effect on May 1, requires providers to obtain prior authorization before delivering services to patients covered by the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), the state's Medicaid program. Providers argue that this requirement creates unnecessary delays in treatment, particularly for those in urgent need of mental health and substance abuse services. They fear that the added bureaucratic step could deter patients from seeking help and exacerbate the existing shortage of behavioral health professionals. The OHA maintains that the rule is necessary to ensure the appropriate use of taxpayer-funded services and to prevent fraud, but providers are calling for its immediate repeal or modification to better serve the needs of vulnerable populations.

Read the Full OPB Article at:
[ https://www.opb.org/article/2025/05/15/behavioral-health-providers-say-oregon-health-authority-rule-puts-patients-at-risk/ ]