Monday, July 11, 2022 | 2 a.m.
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Following May’s Mental Health Awareness Month, Consumers for Quality Care released a survey, conducted by Impact Research and Public Opinion Strategies, showing the importance of closing the gaps in health insurance based on Americans’ experience with the health care system. We’ve got a long way to go when it comes to delivering for consumers — especially in the mental care health space.
The survey shows that most Americans want greater affordability and accessibility of mental health care. Many survey respondents shared that they, especially if under the age of 50, find it difficult to locate a provider covered by their insurance. This is unacceptable, especially as the country sees a 25% increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Biden administration is taking steps to address this crisis, including a comprehensive strategy to bolster mental health care for millions of Americans and hammer insurers that fail to comply with federal laws. Yet, more must be done by insurers to expand access to mental health services and help patients access in-network and covered care.
It’s up to policymakers to continually hold insurers’ feet to the fire and implement solutions to deliver quality, affordable mental health care for all patients. Mental health parity must be ensured.
The writer is a board member of the organization Consumers for Quality Care.
