Behavioral health is surging into 2026 with powerful growth, accelerating innovation and intensifying regulatory oversight. Investment activity remains strong, digital tools are expanding and new care models are scaling, even as enforcement agencies and payors heighten scrutiny. In this edition of our Top Issues in Behavioral Health 2026 newsletter, we unpack the legal and business trends shaping the year ahead and what they mean for providers, investors and industry leaders navigating growth in an increasingly regulated environment.

Key Takeaways On Feb. 27, 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published a notice announcing a six-month nationwide moratorium on the enrollment of certain Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) suppliers in the Medicare program.1   The moratorium was effective on Feb. 27 and applies to all new enrollments and new, separately-enrolled practice locations, including those new enrollments arising from changes in ownership barred by the newly instituted 36-month rule and changes of ownership resulting from asset transfers. The suppliers subject to the moratorium are restricted to medical supply companies and the six related specialty subtypes whose “principle function” is to furnish DMEPOS supplies to beneficiaries and/or medical providers and suppliers. Limitations of the Moratorium Applications received before the effective date