We know a lot about how mental and physical health are related. Physical exercise and healthy eating are good for our mental health too, for example. But when it comes to the illness side of the equation, too often we keep the two in their own silos. That is unfortunate, because when it comes to chronic illness of any type, including access to care and affording that care, mental and physical health are closely linked.
International research shows associations between physical and mental illnesses across different psychiatric conditions, across women and men, and across all ages. To sum it up:
“People with mental health conditions are at higher risk of developing physical illness…. Conversely, people with a diagnosis of physical illness, especially cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer have a greater chance of developing a mental health problem…”
Doherty, A.M., Gaughran, F. The interface of physical and mental health. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 49, 673–682 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-014-0847-7
For someone with both mental and physical illnesses, navigating the challenges can be overwhelming. Finding and getting appointments with multiple health care providers, and coordinating care, is even more complicated. Out of pocket costs to fill prescriptions can be a burden for anyone with a chronic illness, piling on more debt.
We joined with health care advocates recently to speak in support of three bills heard in the Commerce and Labor Committees that relate to individuals with both mental and physical health challenges. They now head to the full Senate, and if approved they go on to the Governor.
HB2738 (Sickles)
Health insurance; coverage for mental health and substance abuse disorders – is a parity bill, to require insurance companies to provide equivalent coverage to mental and physical health conditions. It means insurers must base their coverage decisions on generally accepted standards of care, that are evidence based and have broad endorsement. It passed the Senate Commerce and Labor Committee unanimously.
HB2258 (Delaney)
Bureau of Insurance of SCC; step therapy protocols for health benefit plans, report – requires the Bureau of Insurance to collect data on insurance use of “Step Therapy” – the common requirement to try a less expensive or generic medicine first to see if that works instead of taking the specific drug ordered by your provider. Collected data will include how often it is used, how often decisions are reversed, time frames involved, etc.
HB1725 (Delany)
Medical Debt Protection Act; created, prohibited practices, penalties
This is a medical debt bill that caps interest rates at 3%, and prohibits liens, foreclosures and wage garnishment for lower income patients. The bill passed Senate Commerce and Labor last night 13-2, with hard work by advocacy partners led by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and others, who were able to reach a good-faith compromise with the hospitals and other stakeholders involved.
We are encouraged that, for the most part, these bills have bipartisan support. Hopefully that will set a tone for more support for those with serious health challenges.
