Abstract
[This is an excerpt.] States face extensive barriers overseeing and enforcing the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equality Act (MHPAEA) amid a growing behavioral health care crisis in the United States. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equality Act (MHPAEA) requires insurers to cover mental health and substance use disorder services in a manner equal to physical health services; however, enforcing the law has proven challenging. Access to behavioral health services is critical, as the United States faces a growing mental health crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is clear states need more support. Researchers offer recommendations to policymakers to ensure the promise of MHPAEA is realized for patients across the country, including conducting targeted benefits reviews, providing additional federal resources, and clarifying federal guidance around protections. [To read more, click View Resource.]
This resource is found in our Actionable Strategies for Government: Ensuring Workers' Physical and Mental Health (Support Workers' and Learners' Mental Health & Well-Being).
