With the political landscape changing in the U.S., there is an increased chance for an important mental health bill to be passed through Congress. Some members of the legislature have been working to require insurance companies to bring their coverage of mental health equal to that of physical health. Currently, most insurance plans have more rigid limits on doctor visits and coverage for psychological problems compared to physical ailments, leaving many people with incomplete care.

The legislation, named for the late Sen. Paul Wellstone, a Minnesota Democrat who championed the cause, has strong support in Congress but has run into GOP roadblocks. In the last congressional session, 231 House members — more than half of the chamber — signed on as co-sponsors. The GOP leadership, which in the past had expressed concern that the proposal would drive up health insurance premiums, wouldn’t bring it up for a vote.

I am always in favor of increasing health benefits for people in need, and think that more coverage for problems that affect a large number of Americans will have large benefits for many lives and the country. Although the bill could be blocked again or vetoed if it passses through, it is clearly a statement that mental health treatment is an important national issue and requires an update to the current system.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 30 Dec 2006
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.