Behavioral Health Licensure Compacts: information for state leaders
This article from the National Governors Association (NGA) explores the role of behavioral health compacts as a tool for improving access to care and addressing workforce shortages in mental health services. These compacts enable licensed behavioral health professionals to practice across state lines more efficiently, helping to mitigate shortages and improve care access, particularly in underserved areas. Key points include:
- Workforce Flexibility: Compacts streamline the licensure process, allowing mental health professionals to work in multiple states without obtaining individual state licenses.
- Youth Mental Health Focus: The compacts are particularly valuable in addressing the growing youth mental health crisis by increasing the availability of qualified providers.
- Telehealth Support: Behavioral health compacts promote telehealth services, removing geographic barriers and enabling culturally competent care.
- Equity and Inclusion: The initiative highlights the importance of ensuring equitable mental health access and addressing disparities in workforce diversity.
The NGA emphasizes that states adopting these compacts can better integrate care, leverage technology like telehealth, and ensure more comprehensive workforce strategies to address the rising demand for mental health services effectively. The article also addresses the questions: What actions can states take to become better informed on compacts prior to adoption? and What actions can states take post-adoption to enhance administration?