ASAM Applauds Introduction of the Tele-Mental Health Improvement Act of 2020

On June 1, the Mental Health Liaison Group (MHLG), of which ASAM is a member, sent a letter to Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) and Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) in support of the Tele-Mental Health Improvement Act of 2020 (SB 3792). The bill would require group health plans and health insurers to cover mental health and addiction telehealth services during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

The letter notes that due to the ongoing public health emergency, there is an increase in behavioral health disorders and new cases of individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, and substance misuse. In an effort to address the increased risks of behavioral health disorders and mitigate the spread of COVID-19, it is vitally important that individuals have safe access to behavioral health treatment through telehealth services. The letter also applauds the bill for requiring that health plans and insurers provide reimbursement for telehealth services at the same rate as in-person delivery without barriers or additional prior authorization requirements.

Read the letter here.

Read the bill here.