Examining how Medicaid waivers for serious mental illness affect healthcare use and suicide behaviors
Official title: The Effects of Medicaid Section 1115 Serious Mental Illness Waivers on Healthcare Utilization and Suicide-Related Behaviors
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10932304 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how special Medicaid programs can help people with serious mental health issues get better access to care and support, especially during crises, to see if it can reduce emergency room visits and improve overall mental health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $743,837 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134842-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932304 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults and children with serious mental illness or serious emotional disturbances who may benefit from enhanced mental health services.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild mental health issues or those not covered by Medicaid may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of Medicaid Section 1115 waivers on healthcare utilization and suicide-related behaviors among individuals with serious mental illness. It focuses on understanding how these waivers, which allow federal funding for certain mental health facilities, can improve access to crisis services and inpatient care. By analyzing data from states that have implemented these waivers, the research aims to identify successful strategies for enhancing mental health services and reducing emergency department visits. The findings could provide valuable insights into improving mental health care delivery and outcomes for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved access to mental health services and a reduction in suicide-related behaviors among vulnerable populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that similar Medicaid waivers can improve access to mental health services, but the specific outcomes of these waivers are still being evaluated.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcconnell, Kenneth John — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Mcconnell, Kenneth John
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.