Medicare Mental Health Parity Approved - Advocacy Initiative Network of Maine

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The Advocacy Initiative Network (the Network) is a statewide organization developed by, for and with customers of mental health services throughout Maine. Our mission is to support the creation and sustainability of programs & initiatives that provide a better quality of life for Maine consumers.

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Medicare Mental Health Parity Approved

Friday, 11 July 2008

Just a few days after reconvening from the July recess, the Senate joined the House in passing the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (H.R. 6331) by a veto-proof 69-30. Less-publicized than the provision that would halt a payment cut for physicians providing treatment to Medicare patients is new equity between mental health and medical coverage.

When enacted, the bill will end a longstanding requirement that affects Medicare beneficiaries who need outpatient mental health services. Currently, they face a discriminatory 50% co-insurance for outpatient psychotherapy and services furnished by non-physician mental health professionals (20% for prescription and monitoring of medications to treat mental illness). In contrast, other outpatient health services require only a 20% co-payment.

The present outdated and unfair higher co-payment for mental health services has served as an incentive to use inpatient or institutional care instead of outpatient services. It has also led seniors and people with disabilities who rely on Medicare to forgo needed mental health treatment.

The bill would establish mental health parity within the Medicare program, phasing in a reduction of the higher co-payment over six years, to 20% in 2014.

The passage of H.R. 6331 is a significant accomplishment and makes great strides in modernizing Medicare. A thank-you call, email or letter to your Senators would be welcomed. See how they voted on H.R. 6331 and How to Contact Your Lawmakers.

Maine:

Collins (R-ME), Yea

Snowe (R-ME), Yea

The House passed H.R. 6331 by a vote of 355-59 on June 24th. The overwhelming majority in both chambers makes a veto override likely, should the Administration carry out its earlier threat.

For more information please see the summary of H.R. 6331 provided by the House Ways and Means Committee.

Last Updated ( Friday, 17 October 2008 )