Idaho Behavioral Health Cuts Spark protests
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IDAHO FALLS,Idaho – mental health providers across eastern Idaho are sounding the alarm over sweeping cuts too Idaho’s behavioral health system,and they’re urging the public to take action.
A statewide petition is quickly gaining traction,and a community march is planned for Saturday,november 22,at 10 a.m. on the Broadway bridge in Idaho Falls to protest the latest round of reductions and demand that lawmakers restore the funding.
Nearly 1/4 of Services Eliminated in a Year
The concern comes as Idaho has eliminated or reduced nearly one-quarter of its total Medicaid mental health services in less than a year.
Josh Jackson, owner of Answers Mental wellness Clinics in Idaho Falls and Pocatello, says the cuts are already having “devastating” consequences for clinics, families, and vulnerable Idahoans.
Jackson noted that on January 1, 2025, the state eliminated Targeted Care Coordination, which accounted for approximately 8% of Medicaid mental health services.Then, on November 1, an additional 4% across-the-board provider rate cut took effect. on December 1, Idaho will wholly eliminate Peer Support, a program that represents another 14% of the services offered to Medicaid members.
“Altogether, that’s 25% to 30% of our mental health system gone,” Jackson saeid. “We’ve already been slashed to the bone, forcing many layoffs. It’s emotional for me. There will be more suicides. You can’t quantify a precious human life – it’s priceless.”
jackson says the cuts will shift the burden to emergency rooms, police, fire departments, and already overloaded social services.
Impact on Services and Individuals
The elimination of these programs will disproportionately affect Idahoans with serious mental illnesses, those struggling with substance use disorders, and children with behavioral health needs. Targeted Care Coordination provided crucial support for individuals navigating complex healthcare systems, while Peer Support offered a lifeline for those in recovery.
“Peer support is incredibly valuable because it’s people with lived experience helping others with lived experience,” Jackson explained. “It’s a different level of connection and understanding that you can’t get from a customary therapist.”
Call to action
Providers are urging the public to contact their legislators and demand that they restore funding for behavioral health services.The petition, available here, calls on Governor Brad Little and the Idaho Legislature to prioritize mental health funding in the upcoming legislative session.
The march on Saturday is intended to raise awareness and demonstrate the widespread concern over the cuts. Organizers hope to send a clear message to lawmakers that mental health is a critical issue that cannot be ignored.
Key Takeaways
- Idaho has cut nearly 25-30% of Medicaid mental health services in under a year.
- Eliminated programs include Targeted Care Coordination and peer Support.
- These cuts will likely increase the burden on emergency services and law enforcement.
- advocates are urging public action through petitions and protests.
Publication Date: 2025/11/22 09:46:01