New feature: Thursday Quick Q&A – taking questions rather broad in scope and providing answers in easy to read summary. For example, see below regarding the recently enacted mental health reform law. Join WW and play along! 

TODAY’S Q&A

What does the new Mental Health Reform law actually address with regard to mental health?
The 21st Century Cures Act strengthens mental health parity laws, requiring insurance companies to cover mental health treatments to the same extent, and in the same way, as medical (physical health) treatments. In addition, the Act includes grants to provide community mental health resources, suicide prevention and intervention programs, and de-escalation training for law enforcement. The bill also provides five-year grants for a demonstration program in which psychiatry residents and other mental health clinicians will practice in underserved areas.  Further benefits of the new law bring millions to research on brain disease and other vital work.