AMA calls for greater enforcement of Parity Act on 10th anniversary

CHICAGO — On the 10th anniversary of the law requiring parity for coverage of mental health and drug addiction treatment, the American Medical Association (AMA) called on state and federal policymakers to enforce the law’s provisions to help end the opioid epidemic.   

“Ten years ago, policymakers came together to address shortcomings in the way care was provided for those with mental health and/or substance use disorders,” said AMA President-elect Patrice A. Harris, MD, MA, who also chairs the AMA Opioid Task Force. “The law’s much-needed reforms improved opportunities for care and reduced the stigma of having a mental health or substance use disorder. Yet, an overwhelming number of people needing treatment for an addiction are not receiving it. Clearly, we have a long way to go.”