NEWS AND UPDATES

Update on the Impact of North Dakota’s Medicaid Policy on Behavioral Intervention Rehabilitation Services
published Wednesday, January 21, 2026

The service limit proposal we previously expressed concern about was officially put into policy on 1/1/2026. Since the policy was implemented, Solutions has continued reaching out to the state to advocate for what is needed to maintain medically necessary services for the clients who depend on them. Despite ongoing communication, our requests for meetings to address critical questions have been declined.

As shared in our earlier updates, we submitted Service Authorization requests for our most high‑risk clients. All requests have been denied. We have been closely tracking these denials, especially for individuals at risk of out‑of‑home or out‑of‑state placements, which are outcomes we have seen occur following similar policy changes in the past.

Because of these new limits and the lack of clear guidance, we have had to notify families that their children will be discharged from services once NDMA limits are reached, even when medical necessity continues. We recognize how difficult this is for families and remain committed to doing everything we can to sustain these essential mental and behavioral health services, despite significant barriers.

Important Changes to North Dakota Medicaid Policy on Behavioral Intervention Rehabilitation Services

On January 1, 2026, North Dakota Health and Human Services enacted service limits capping the number of hours of Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services that Medicaid-eligible children can receive at 168 units per year.

We are actively assessing the full impact of this policy and determining the best path forward. Our priority is to support families with accurate information, clear guidance, and ongoing communication. We will keep stakeholders informed and share next steps as they become available.

You can find more resources below. Please stay tuned to our social media channels for any additional updates.

Solutions public statement regarding these policy changes

Our FAQ guide to these changes

Read the full NDHHS Rehabilitative Services policy and Public Comment Summary