Leaked MAHA Report Signals New Psychotropic Scrutiny
Leaked MAHA Report Signals New Psychotropic Scrutiny
A newly leaked Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) commission report includes plans for a working group scrutinizing psychotropic medications for children, such as antidepressants and stimulants for ADHD.
Why it matters
Children in foster care have higher rates of both mental health conditions and prescription of these medications.Debates over appropriate prescribing are not new to child welfare policy. Foundational questions about the appropriateness of psychotropic medications for children have new momentum, and could augur larger policy changes than prescribing oversight.
Strategic implications
The working group aims to address the prescribing of these medications to children broadly. Will a broad policy address different needs for children in care?
What first movers are doing
Proactive child welfare agencies are auditing their psychotropic medication oversight protocols and preparing for MAHA questions. Residential treatment providers are preparing for Medicaid headwinds and impeded medication access.
What to watch
Whether child welfare gets a seat at the working group table.