HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 110

(By Delegates By Delegates Morgan, Stephens, Cann, Butcher, Ferns, Givens, Hall, Hartman, Hatfield, Jones, Martin, Phillips, R., Staggers, Swartzmiller, Talbott, Azinger, Howell, Kump, O’Neal, Nelson, Romine and Storch)

(Originating in the Committee on Government Organization;

February 25, 2011)Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance authorize a study regarding Licensed Professional Counselors being reimbursed through Medicaid.

    Whereas, Statute provides that Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) can diagnose and treat in the state of West Virginia, however the Medicaid program does not allow LPCs to bill independent of other licensed professionals; and

    Whereas, Citizens in rural areas of the state do not have adequate access to licensed professional counseling therapy; and     Whereas, LPCs have extensive training, education and rigorous standards to obtain certification; and

    Whereas, Currently there are 1,041 LPCs practicing in the state; and

    Whereas, Most insurers available to serve the needs of the people of West Virginia, including the Public Employees Insurance Agency, recognize the LPC profession for billing purposes; and     Whereas, Currently 17 states recognize LPCs as independent mental health professionals who can bill Medicaid directly; therefore, be it

    Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

    That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to authorize a study regarding Licensed Professional Counselors being reimbursed through Medicaid; and be it

    Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the Regular Session of the Legislature, 2012, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Legislative expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.