BCBS TexasMedium ImpactAdministrative

Encourage Follow-up Care after Hospital Visits for Mental Health

Published May 3, 2026Effective February 6, 2026

AI Summary

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas is encouraging providers to schedule follow-up care within 7-30 days after hospital or emergency department visits for mental health conditions. This policy tracks HEDIS measures for follow-up care quality and provides guidance to improve patient outcomes and reduce readmissions.

Action Required

Immediately: Clinical staff should establish workflows to encourage mental health patients to schedule follow-up appointments within 7 days of hospital/ED discharge. Update discharge procedures to help patients schedule in-person or telehealth visits. Ensure follow-up visits use mental health diagnosis codes consistent with the original admission. Coordinate care between behavioral health and primary care providers by sharing progress notes.

Plan Types

All Plans

States

TX

Specialties

psychiatry, emergency-medicine, hospitalist, family-medicine, internal-medicine