In a recent meeting of the Ohio Senate Medicaid Committee, discussions centered on the state's commitment to enhancing behavioral health services for children, particularly through the innovative OhioRISE program. As the meeting unfolded, committee members highlighted the program's significant strides in addressing the complex needs of youth with behavioral health challenges.

OhioRISE, a specialized managed care plan, aims to provide comprehensive support for children requiring intensive services. Unlike traditional managed care, OhioRISE focuses on delivering care in the least restrictive environment, emphasizing home-based services. This approach not only supports the well-being of children but also aims to reduce costs associated with more intensive institutional care.

The committee shared promising data reflecting the program's impact. Notably, OhioRISE has achieved a remarkable 41 percent reduction in emergency room visits and a 28 percent decrease in psychiatric hospital stays. Furthermore, the average length of hospitalization has dropped by 40 percent, and youth in psychiatric residential treatment facilities are now staying 60 percent less time than before. These statistics underscore the effectiveness of OhioRISE in improving outcomes for children with significant behavioral health needs.

The meeting also referenced a report that includes national quality indicators, which compare OhioRISE's performance against traditional managed care plans. The findings reveal a clear advantage for OhioRISE, showcasing its ability to provide better care while reducing the reliance on out-of-state treatments, which have decreased to just 60 cases in 2024.

As Ohio continues to prioritize behavioral health for its youth, the success of the OhioRISE program stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that targeted, innovative approaches can lead to meaningful improvements in the lives of children and their families. The committee's discussions not only reflect a commitment to better health outcomes but also signal a broader movement towards more effective and compassionate care in the state.