Expanding Seniors Access to Mental Health Services Act

# Expanding Seniors Access to Mental Health Services Act (S 1797) **What the Bill Would Do** This bill aims to improve access to mental health services for seniors covered by Medicare. While the full text details aren't specified in the summary provided, bills with this title typically focus on removing barriers that prevent older Americans from receiving counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care. This might include expanding which mental health professionals seniors can see, increasing the number of therapy sessions covered, or reducing out-of-pocket costs for mental health treatment. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily benefit Medicare beneficiaries (people 65 and older, plus some younger individuals with disabilities).

It could also indirectly affect mental health professionals who treat seniors, as changes to coverage and reimbursement could influence how they serve this population. **Current Status** As of now, S 1797 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced in the Senate but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full chamber. The bill was sponsored by Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyoming). For specifics on what provisions the bill contains, you would need to review the full legislative text or committee reports.