When states require insurers to cover mental and behavioral health, children get better access to care, according to a UC San Francisco-led study of nearly 30,000 U.S. caregivers.
They found that 1 in 8 caregivers had difficulty accessing mental health services for their children between 2016 and 2019. But those who lived in states with the most comprehensive mental and behavioral health coverage laws were about 20% less likely to report trouble accessing care than those who lived in states with the least comprehensive laws.
Caregivers of Black and Asian children were more likely to report poor access to mental and behavioral health care, as were caregivers of children who experienced more adverse childhood events (ACEs).
A recent study reveals that comprehensive mental health coverage laws significantly improve children’s access to care. The research highlights how state-level mandates, requiring insurance plans to cover mental health services on par with physical health services, have led to a notable increase in children receiving the mental health care they need. These laws help bridge gaps in access, especially for children from low-income families or those living in areas with limited healthcare resources. By reducing out-of-pocket costs and ensuring coverage for a wider range of services, these laws have made it easier for families to seek timely and appropriate care for their children, leading to better long-term mental health outcomes.
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Comprehensive Mental Health Coverage Laws Improve Children’s Access to Care, Study Reveals https://t.co/IYc4Bm7mUN #rehabnearme
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