Building Back Together Applauds the Biden-Harris Administration’s Final Rule on Mental Health Parity

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 9, 2024
PRESS CONTACT: [email protected]

BUILDING BACK TOGETHER APPLAUDS THE BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION’S FINAL RULE ON MENTAL HEALTH PARITY

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In celebration of the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic actions today on mental health parity, Building Back Together Spokesperson Lauren Slater released the following statement:

“Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced a new rule to ensure people living with mental health conditions have equal access to treatment as those with physical conditions, building on the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act’s (MHPAEA) provisions. Despite having private insurance, individuals with mental health conditions face average out-of-pocket costs of $1,500 for their treatment — twice as much as those seeking care for non-mental health issues. Additionally, they often encounter barriers to accessing in-network care, leading to even higher costs despite being insured. Today’s final rule makes clear — there is no difference between mental health care and physical health care.

“As someone who has lived with Bipolar Disorder since I was 17, I know firsthand how this issue impacts millions of Americans. From large out-of-pocket costs to having difficulty finding mental health providers in my area that have experience working with folks in my condition, treatment has at times felt nearly impossible. Unfortunately, my experience is not unique — despite wanting help, many lack adequate access to in-network providers and must continue to advocate for their private insurance to cover life-saving treatments. Knowing the stakes, seeking mental health care should be just as easy, if not easier, than seeing a doctor for a broken bone.

“Since taking office, President Biden and Vice President Harris have consistently advocated for people with mental health conditions. From announcing the largest investment in student mental health in history to creating the 988 lifeline, their administration has prioritized the dignity and care of those struggling with mental health and substance abuse conditions, ensuring we have the access to care we need to thrive. At BBT, we applaud today’s final rule announcement, and look forward to even more actions to support Americans living with mental health conditions.”

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