About Section 223

Section 223 implementation includes a planning grant phase for 24 states, followed by a demonstration program phase for eight of those 24 states.

The program is authorized under Section 223 of the Protecting Access to Medicare Act (PAMA) (PL 113-93). Program activities aim to integrate behavioral health with physical health care, increase consistent use of evidence-based practices, and improve access to high-quality care.

Participating states certify community behavioral health clinics that meet federally developed criteria – 2015 (PDF | 755 KB) emphasizing accessible and high-quality care. The certified community behavioral health clinics (CCBHCs) are compensated for services through a prospective payment system (PPS).

Planning Grants

In October 2015, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) awarded planning grants to 24 states.

The purpose of the planning grants is to help states plan for and prepare to participate in the two-year demonstration program. The funding supports states’ efforts to:

  • Certify CCBHCs
  • Establish a PPS
  • Improve data collection and reporting systems
  • Engage stakeholders in how the state will implement the program

For background on the planning grants, review the 2015 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and application materials.

Last Updated: 06/08/2022