Evaluation of inclusion of additional accrediting bodies for purposes of qualifications for licensure of mental health professionals under TRICARE Program

(a) In general The Director of the Defense Health Agency shall evaluate the feasibility and advisability of permitting reimbursement under the TRICARE program of certified mental health counselors who hold a masters or higher-level degree in counseling from a program that is accredited by a covered institution. (b) Report Not later than July 1, 2027, the Director shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the evaluation conducted under subsection (a). (c) Interim final rule If the report submitted under subsection (b) recommends permitting reimbursement of counselors with a degree from a program accredited by a covered institution, the Director shall issue an interim final rule implementing such recommendations not later than two years after submittal of the report. (d) Definitions In this section: (1) Covered institution The term covered institution means any of the following: (A) The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges Western Association of Schools and Colleges. (B) The Higher Learning Commission. (C) The Middle States Commission on Higher Education. (D) The New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Institutions of Higher Education. (E) The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. (F) The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission. (G) The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. (H) The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. (I) The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. (J) The Distance Education Accreditation Commission. (K) The Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation. (L) The American Psychology Association. (2) TRICARE program The term TRICARE program has the meaning given that term in section 1072 of title 10, United States Code.