Health care

Mental and behavioral health services like in-person support during a crisis or substance use treatment might soon become more accessible in the state. Montana is among 10 states participating in a federal program that will provide the funding needed to expand this care.

Federal officials released the final rules for Medicaid requirements this week. Hiding among the nearly 400 pages of regulations is a significant change that could make it harder for Montanans to stay on the public health insurance program.

Two federal scientists based in Montana have been charged for allegedly smuggling samples of a virus into the country earlier this year. They work for Rocky Mountain Laboratories, a high-level research facility in the Bitterroot Valley. The lab studies infectious diseases and is overseen by the National Institute of Health.

A major health insurance company is leaving Montana, saying it’s no longer profitable to do business in the state. The move will force about 11,000 Montanans to choose different health plans next year. It’s part of a nationwide trend.

The CSKT water compact has been finalized after years of negotiation. Governor announces $1.2 million investment into child psychiatric care; SNAP restrictions on sugary foods take effect in Montana; Senate confirms Brian Gootkin as Montana's new U.S. Marshal; Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez event in Missoula moved to May 28.

Some state Medicaid services are on the chopping block due to a budget shortfall. The state health department estimates it will need at least another $7 million, but isn’t saying what services might be cut.

Montana’s health department says it’s moving forward with plans to reimburse trained, non-medical maternal health professionals called “doulas” through Medicaid. MTPR’s Austin Amestoy sat down with KFF Health News reporter Katheryn Houghton to get the update.

Montana has one of the highest youth suicide rates in the U.S. The kind of psychiatric care kids need after a suicide attempt isn’t always available in-state. Many families are forced to send their child to a facility across the country. A new program near Bozeman hopes to make that less common.

Youth on the Rocky Boy's Reservation now have a new hub to learn, play and even receive health care. Doors to the The Good Life Lodge opened in late March after 5 years of work.

MTPR is interviewing candidates running for federal office in 2026. MTPR's Victoria Traxler speaks with Sam Lux, a Democrat running for Montana's eastern U.S. House seat.