Governor Kathy Hochul has announced new regulations aimed at improving access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment in New York State. Under the new rules, individuals seeking behavioral health care must be given an initial appointment within 10 business days, or within seven calendar days if they are discharged from a hospital. If insurers fail to meet these timelines, they will be required to provide out-of-network coverage at in-network costs.
“New Yorkers deserve a speedy and effective process to receive the services they need,” Hochul said. “These regulations will standardize wait times, allow for same cost-sharing, and update directories—providing individuals more access to mental health and substance use disorder care statewide.”
The initiative, developed by the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) and the Department of Health (DOH), is part of a broader effort to strengthen the state’s behavioral health care system. The regulations also require insurers to update their provider directories with clearer details, including locations, telehealth availability, and languages spoken by providers.
DFS Superintendent Adrienne Harris emphasized the importance of eliminating obstacles to care, while State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald noted that network adequacy standards will ensure that insurers maintain enough providers to meet patient needs. Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan added that the changes will make it easier for New Yorkers to find and access high-quality behavioral health care.
The regulations, which apply to commercial insurance plans, take effect on July 1, 2025. Identical regulations for HMOs, including Medicaid managed care plans, will also go into effect on the same date.
The announcement builds upon Hochul’s ongoing investments in mental health services. Her administration has directed billions of dollars toward expanding hospital and community-based care, increasing housing options for individuals with mental illness, and restoring hundreds of inpatient psychiatric beds across the state. The FY 2026 budget continues these efforts, including funding for outpatient programs, peer support services, and forensic mental health care.
With these new measures, New York is taking a major step toward ensuring that mental health and substance use disorder treatment is accessible, timely, and effective for all residents.
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