Medicare Part B Updates for Peer Support Specialists in Behavioral Health for Older Adults and People With Disabilities

Effective January 1, 2024, Medicare Part B reforms now permit physicians to bill for peer support as an auxiliary service for Medicare and Medicaid patients. This change addresses the behavioral health crisis that was exacerbated by COVID-19 by allowing certified peer support specialists to provide Medicare-reimbursable services nationwide. Peer support, which includes sharing lived experiences and offering role modeling, has shown positive effects related to hope, recovery, and empowerment. However, implementation variability and billing limitations persist. The authors discuss the implications of, opportunities for, and potential solutions related to integrating peer support into Medicare settings to enhance care for older Americans and people with disabilities.