On Sept. 10, U.S. Reps. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA) and Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) introduced bipartisan legislation that supports the implementation of Collaborative Care in the U.S.. This comes at an important time because 4 in 10 U.S. adults report symptoms of depression or anxiety, and 1 in 10 say they have seriously considered suicide. These numbers are even higher in vulnerable and resource strained communities. To address this crisis, we need a national investment in proven approaches for evidence-based mental health and substance use treatment.
The Collaborate in an Orderly and Cohesive Manner (COCM) Act will accomplish that if it is passed. It will provide primary care practices start-up funds and technical assistance as they adopt Collaborative Care – improving both access and quality. The bill also provides funds for research to build the evidence base for other models of integrated behavioral health care. Eighteen organizations announced their support for the Act.
- Read an Op-ed written by AIMS Center Co-director Anna Ratzliff and Founder Jürgen Unützer here.
- Read the American Psychiatric Association’s News Release here.
- Read a Congressional Release from Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher here.
- Watch national healthcare leaders discuss the need for Collaboratrive Care in a brief video sponsored by the American Psychiatric Association here.