05/14/2026

HHS Targets Psychotropic Prescribing Practices

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has launched a new initiative focused on reducing unnecessary psychiatric medication use. In a May 4 announcement, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. outlined an action plan aimed at preventing inappropriate initiation of psychiatric medications while supporting safe tapering or discontinuation when individuals are not experiencing clinical benefit. The initiative centers on education and outreach, policy and program changes, and research-to-practice efforts. In a related Dear Colleague letter, HHS encouraged providers to prioritize informed consent, shared decision-making, and ongoing review of medication risks and benefits. The agency also highlighted nonpharmacological interventions and identified billing codes that may support evidence-based nonmedication treatment approaches.

While much of the announcement focused on children and adolescents, the initiative is also relevant for nursing homes and other aging services providers given heightened federal attention on psychotropic medication use. CMS updated nursing home guidance in November 2024 to classify unnecessary psychotropic medications as chemical restraints while continuing efforts to reduce antipsychotic use in long-term care settings. As HHS advances this initiative, providers should continue focusing on core compliance areas including informed consent, appropriate clinical indications, documentation, and gradual dose reductions when indicated.

LeadingAge resources on psychotropic medications and prevention of chemical restraints may also help organizations review current practices.