In this episode, Rachel talks with Deborah Steinberg, Senior Health Policy Attorney at the Legal Action Center, about the current state of mental health parity in the U.S. Deborah explains what parity means, why it matters, and how gaps in enforcement continue to affect patients and providers.
They also discuss the recent HHS rule reversal and its impact on insurance coverage, including disparities in reimbursement and network adequacy. Listeners will learn about key barriers in mental health and substance use disorder care, as well as practical steps for advocacy and holding plans accountable.
Introduction to Deborah Steinberg and her policy work
Overview of mental health parity laws and importance
Discussion on HHS rule reversal and its impact
Disparities between mental and physical health coverage
Enforcement gaps at federal and state levels
Role of data collection in identifying parity violations
Network adequacy challenges for providers and patients
Aligning health plan coverage criteria with standards of care
Steps consumers can take to report parity violations
Ways to engage in state-based advocacy and reforms
Advocacy benefits for patients, providers, and systemic change
Mental Health Care May Be Harder to Obtain After HHS Rule Reversal – STAT News
New Tool Brings Mental Health Parity Problems to Light – AMA
Commissioner King Fines Insurers Over $20 Million for Parity Violations – Georgia OCI
Mental Health Parity Enforcement Updates – Congressman Tonko
Website: https://www.lac.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-steinberg-b4822536/
Instagram: @deborahgwen
Website: The Mental Health Evolution
Instagram: @thementalhealthevolution
LinkedIn: The Mental Health Evolution
Facebook: The Mental Health Entrepreneur
Music by Zach Harrison
