Press Release
October 17, 2008
Susan Davis Honored for her Support of Mental Health Care Coverage Equality
Legislation ends discrimination against patients with mental illnesses
San Diego, Ca. – A rally took place celebrating passage of legislation to guarantee equal treatment for those suffering from mental health illness. San Diego Congresswoman Susan Davis was praised at the rally for her support of the Health and Addiction Equity Act (H.R. 1424), which was approved as part of the financial rescue package by the House of Representatives on October 1.
“Mental illnesses are treatable diseases that impact millions of Americans each year,” said Davis. “Unfortunately, many group health plans currently do not provide the same coverage for mental illnesses as they do for physical ailments. I’m proud to support important legislation that will help end this practice and ensure more Americans get the care they need and deserve.”
The legislation prohibits insurers and group health plans from imposing treatment or financial limitations when they offer mental health benefits that are more restrictive from those applied to medical and surgical services.
Davis has been dedicated to mental health issues from her days working as a psychiatric social worker. As a legislator, she authored mental health legislation in the California State Assembly and is tackling mental health system deficiencies for U.S. servicemembers as Chairwoman of the House Subcommittee on Military Personnel.
The bill was backed by a diverse group of organizations including the American Medical Association, American Hospital Association, American Nurses Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, National Hispanic Medical Association, American Counseling Association, Families USA, American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, National Mental Health Awareness Campaign, and Mental Health America.