D13 - Leveraging CMS Crisis Care Guidance: Policy Pathways to Expand Emergency Capable Crisis Services

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM MDT

Location: Bluebird 3G

Unrestricted Education Sponsor

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released comprehensive guidance emphasizing the critical need for "emergency capable services" that operate 24/7 without referral dependencies—positioning High-Intensity Behavioral Health Emergency Centers as essential infrastructure in the behavioral health crisis continuum. This session will explore how states can leverage new CMS policy frameworks, including Section 1115 demonstration authorities and CCBHC strategies, to expand access to community-based emergency stabilization facilities that serve as alternatives to hospital emergency departments for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises.

Learning Objectives:

Review CMS policy framework: Examine the key components of CMS's crisis care guidance, including "emergency capable services" and requirements for no-barrier emergency facilities that accept public safety drop-offs and walk-ins.
Understand regulatory pathways: Participants will explore how states can utilize CCBHC designation and other regulatory mechanisms to implement comprehensive crisis services that meet CMS standards for 24/7/365 multidisciplinary care.
Develop advocacy approaches: Participants will identify evidence-based talking points for engaging state policymakers on expanding High-Intensity Behavioral Health Emergency Centers as essential community infrastructure.

Disclosure(s):

Chris Santarsiero, MBA: No financial relationships to disclose

Breakout Presenter(s)

Chris Santarsiero, MBA

Vice President Government Affairs
Connections Health Solutions
Old Saybrook, CT, Connecticut

Disclosure(s): No financial relationships to disclose

Slides
Angela Bergefurd, BA, MPA

Senior Consultant
Health Management Associates
Lansing, Michigan

Disclosure information not submitted.
Alicia D. Smith, MHA

Executive Director
Peg's Foundation - Clear Pathways
Hudson, Ohio

Disclosure information not submitted.
Margie Balfour, MD, PhD

Chief of Quality & Clinical Innovation
Connections Health Solutions
Tucson, Arizona

Disclosure information not submitted.