New rules proposed to help boost mental health coverage

WASHINGTON -- President Joe Biden on Tuesday announced his administration is moving forward with new rules meant to push insurance companies to increase their coverage of mental health treatments.

The new regulations, which still need to go through a public comment period, would require insurers to study whether their customers have equal access to medical and mental health benefits and to take remedial action, if necessary. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires insurers provide the same level of coverage for both mental and physical health care -- though the administration and advocates argue insurers' policies restrict patient access.

"I don't know what the difference between breaking your arm and having a mental breakdown is -- it's health," Biden said in an East Room event highlighting the announcement. "We must fulfill the promise of true mental health parity for all Americans now."

The rules, if finalized, would force insurers to study patient outcomes to ensure mental health and physical health benefits are administered equally, taking into account their provider network and reimbursement rates and whether prior authorization is required for care.

The Democratic president's administration said it's aiming to address issues such as insurers enabling nutritional counseling for diabetes patients, but making it more difficult for those with eating disorders or not having enough mental health providers in their provider networks, forcing subscribers to pay higher, out-of-pocket fees for needed help.

President Joe Biden speaks in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Tuesday, July 25, 2023, about proposed rules meant to push insurance companies to increase their coverage of mental health treatments. The rules, if finalized, would force insurers to study patient outcomes to ensure the benefits are administered equally, taking into account their provider network and reimbursement rates and whether prior authorization is required for care. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

President Joe Biden speaks in the East Room of the White House in Washington, Tuesday, July 25, 2023, about proposed rules meant to push insurance companies to increase their coverage of mental health treatments. The rules, if finalized, would force insurers to study patient outcomes to ensure the benefits are administered equally, taking into account their provider network and reimbursement rates and whether prior authorization is required for care. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh)

"Folks, it shouldn't be this way," Biden said. "It doesn't need to be this way."

By measuring outcomes, the White House said, it will force insurers to make modifications to come into compliance with the law.