From Leigh Simons Youmans, Senior Director, Healthcare Policy

“As we saw on Tuesday night, the nation’s mental health crisis is worthy of the nation’s biggest stage. MHA and our members proudly stand behind the behavioral health priorities put forth by President Biden in his State of the Union address. The administration’s approach takes aim at some of the most persistent roadblocks that patients and healthcare providers are experiencing here in Massachusetts. 

“There should be zero barriers for individuals seeking mental health and substance use services. We agree that bold, decisive action is needed to modernize insurance coverage, to invest in the healthcare workforce, and to pay special attention to children and underrepresented populations. Our healthcare institutions look forward to being a partner to the administration as it sees this work through. We are also grateful for the progress that has already been made in Massachusetts, thanks to the leadership of our local elected officials.”