New bill allows Medi-Cal reimbursement for substance abuse counselors

Governor Jerry Brown has signed a bill that will allow reimbursement for substance abuse counselors.

AB 2861 will allow Medi-Cal reimbursement for certified substance use disorder counselors that provide treatment via telehealth to those suffering from addiction. Telehealth is a term used to describe technologies medical providers can use to help treat their patients, such as online consultations.

The bill was authored by Assemblymember Rudy Salas (D-Bakersfield). According to Assemblymember Salas, it is meant to provide better access to substance abuse treatment, especially for those rural areas.