Let’s make coverage parity a reality

The insurance industry continues to publicly voice their reasons why mental health and substance use disorders (MH/SUD) can’t be covered like physical health.

Fortunately, we also have a voice, and we believe differently. The insurance industry’s stated obstacles to care for MH/SUD can be moved or destroyed when we all work together.

As expanded requirements for parity are in discussion, we are urging partners, advocates, and supporters to come out in force in support of full parity and the rules that will finally require meaningful enforcement.

Ultimately, we hope to identify and work with partners so that we can invite the industry to play a role in solving the MH/SUD care challenges we’re facing – instead of simply trying to block the new rule.

We won’t be denied. But we will work together.

WHAT WE NEED:

  • Visit the Don’t Deny Me social media toolkit and share the messages with your followers. We have provided partner-inclusive graphics and language that can be modified to your audiences and needs.
  • Follow The Kennedy Forum on LinkedIn, Facebook and X, as we coalesce our partners to help bring insurance companies to the table.
  • Stay connected through email, so that available updates are delivered straight to your inbox.

Concerned young woman looking at document 2

WHY NOW?

Though the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 requires health insurance carriers to cover Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders equitably, enforcement of the law has been defied again and again. Now, proposed requirements are fueling the insurance industry’s resistance, which is more unified and public than ever. A powerful, amplified message confirms that decisionmakers, lawmakers, and the public-at-large have a say – and a choice – in how we address mental health and substance use care.

Learn More About Parity