CMCS Announces Opportunities and Resources to Address Psychotropic Drugs for Vulnerable Populations - Aug. 28, 2012

The Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services (CMCS) sent an informational bulletin on Aug. 24 to inform states about collaborative efforts and technical assistance to strengthen the management of psychotropic drugs for children in foster care and individuals in nursing homes. To aid in management efforts, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is encouraging states to utilize the existing framework of drug utilization review (DUR) programs, which are required for all states to oversee drug prescription to Medicaid beneficiaries. CMS recognizes the challenges states have with oversight of psychotropic drugs, especially when used for children in state custody, and has posted various examples of programs that have addressed this issue within the construct of a state’s DUR program. CMS understands that states can take a variety of actions on this issue and has posted additional resources in the bulletin – e.g., the basic principles set forth by the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry – to serve as a guide to states as they review their program.

Additionally, CMS, the Administration for Children and Families, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration held a 2-day working meeting with states– Because Minds Matter: Collaborating to Strengthen Management of Psychotropic Medications for Children and Youth in Foster Care – on Aug. 27 and 28. State Medicaid directors are also encouraged to participate in implementation calls for the Partnership to Improve Dementia Care in Nursing Homes, an initiative aimed at improving behavioral health among nursing home residents and protecting those residents from unnecessary drug use.