APA supports actions to address Black women and girls’ mental health
August 19, 2026
APA Services is mobilizing to support and protect the future of behavioral and mental health support for Black women and girls
Our focus
- Ensure adequate coverage and reimbursement of mental and behavioral health services in future health reform legislation
Despite the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) over a decade ago, many patients remain without adequate health insurance coverage. Efforts to shore up the ACA, its subsidies, and its protections must continue to address the mental and behavioral health needs of patients. - Improve and strengthen coverage of mental and behavioral health services in public health insurance programs such as Medicaid and CHIP
Public health insurance programs such as Medicaid remain the largest payer of mental health services, and yet many patients continue to find these services inaccessible, often resulting in improper boarding in emergency rooms or long waitlists for services. Because states enjoy a great deal of discretion in the design and scope of these programs, incentives should be provided to expand coverage of mental health services within these programs.
Our efforts on this issue advance the following advocacy priorities:
- Access to health services, including mental and behavioral health services
- Health equity for underserved and vulnerable populations
- Health promotion and prevention throughout lifespan and settings
- Reimbursement and scope of practice
We should be expanding access to health insurance, including behavioral health services, rather than stripping coverage from Americans in need…
What you can do
Related issues
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Stephen R. Gillaspy, PhD
Deputy Chief, Health Policy and Healthcare Financing
Scott Barstow
Senior Director of Congressional and Federal Affairs
Andrew Strickland, JD
Senior Legislative and Regulatory Officer
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