APA Services provided comments in response to a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee request (PDF, 302KB)opens in new window for comments on the reauthorization of the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Actopens in new window (PAHPA). The comments emphasized the need for incorporating psychological science into pandemic preparedness, consistent with previous related comments.
The comments stressed the importance of coordination between the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Both SAMHSA and the CDC have responsibilities related to pandemic preparedness, and both must take steps to further incorporate the science and perspectives offered by psychologists. As is increasingly recognized, public health encompasses more than just physical health, but also includes mental and behavioral health.
To date, agencies such as SAMHSA and CDC that are charged with pandemic and public health responses have underestimated the role of health inequities in emergency responses. The covid-19 pandemic shed light on and deepened systemic disparities in access to behavioral health care for populations of color, which further harmed their mental well-being. These inequities must be considered when revising preparedness plans and determining appropriate levels of care and coordination, including those being contemplated in PAHPA.
The association also emphasized the importance of incorporating psychology into public health messaging. The role of mis- and disinformation continues to be examined in the response to the covid-19 pandemic, but psychological science has provided research on how false information spreads and how best to counter it. Access to and belief in trusted sources of health information is vital in responding to public health emergencies.
APA Services will continue to engage with Senate leaders drafting the PAHPA reauthorization to ensure that they recognize and codify the beneficial role psychological science can play in the run up to and immediate response to a pandemic.
Read the full comment (PDF, 302KB)opens in new window.
For more information, contact Corbin Evans.