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California Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI)

Description of CYBHI

 

The State of California is working with schools and health plans to ensure students can access mental health and emotional well-being services at school through the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) (https://cybhi.chhs.ca.gov/ (CYBHI Information). Health insurance companies are now required to reimburse AUSD for the mental health services that are already provided by our mental health specialists, counselors, and school psychologists. 

What is behavioral health care?

Behavioral health care includes support for mental health and substance use disorders. Students and families can get help for:

  • Stress, anxiety or depression
  • Emotional struggles
  • Substance use or addiction
  • General mental wellness

How can you help?

In order to be reimbursed, the District must establish that the child receiving services is insured. You will not be billed in any way for services provided and your insurance will not be affected.

  • Please login into the Aeries Parent Portal to update your student’s Aeries Medical Insurance  Information 
    • Provide the following information on the Insurance Information page:
      • Insurance Enrollment Start Date
      • Insurance Carrier Code (select from drop-down menu)
      • Policy Member ID
      • Group Number (if applicable)
      • Subscriber Name

Screenshots of Updating Health Insurance in Aeries


 

Resources for Families

CYBHI Parent/Caregiver Flyer (English) 

CYBHI Parent/Caregiver Flyer (Spanish) 

 

FAQs

Will the information be kept confidential?

Yes, the health insurance information you provide is completely confidential. Your family is protected by federal laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

What if I don’t have any insurance?

Not having insurance will not affect the services your student receives. Billing for services provides an additional financial benefit to the school district, but it is not a requirement, and it will not impact the support available to your student.

How does CYBHI benefit students in school?

CYBHI is designed to directly benefit children and families by bringing mental health and wellness services into schools and school-related settings, making care more accessible, comprehensive, and youth-centered. 

Will families receive a bill?

No. Families are not responsible for any out-of-pocket expenses, such as copayments or deductibles, for services provided under this initiative. The law prohibits health plans from passing these costs onto families. 

How does CYBHI work?

Under CYBHI, California has established agreements with private insurers and a standardized Multi-Payer Fee Schedule for School-Linked mental health and wellness services to ensure that schools receive reimbursement for providing mental health services to students. 

 

How do schools get reimbursed?

Schools deliver eligible behavioral health services to students aged 22 and younger. These services can include screenings, assessments, therapy, and case management. After delivering services, schools submit claims to the students' health insurance through Carelon. The CYBHI Fee Schedule sets standardized reimbursement rates for specific services, ensuring consistent payment across different healthcare plans.