National

This page provides an overview of National/Federal issues, legislation, and advocacy efforts that pertains to mental health and the provision of mental health care.

Summer 2022 Updates

Expanded Resources for Mental Health Care

The current federal administration has announced “a national mental health strategy to strengthen system capacity, connect more Americans to care, and create a continuum of support –transforming our health and social services infrastructure to address mental health holistically and equitably.” While many of these objectives will take time to develop, the strategy provides an outline of key areas where we can focus our own advocacy efforts now. Involvement in advocacy efforts helps to make our profession more visible to the general public as well as healthcare providers who we can collaborate with through integrated care systems.

 For a description of current federal efforts, CLICK HERE.

Medicare Inclusion (billing under Medicare)

Medicare inclusion is an example of legislation where there is opportunity for advocacy each year.

Over the last 15 years the Mental Health Access Improvement Act (S. 828 and H.R. 432) has been introduced in Congress which would codify marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors as approved and recognized providers in the Medicare program in order to receive reimbursement for treating older adults and people who qualify for disability under Medicare with mental health disorders. For resources to help promote Medicare inclusion go to: https://www.amhca.org/advocacy/medicare.