The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is a national panel of experts in preventive and evidence-based medicine that makes clinical preventive services recommendations to improve health nationwide in the U.S. APA is a dissemination and implementation partner of the USPSTF, and APA member John Ruiz, PhD, is a member of the USPSTF. Recently, the USPSTF featured APA in its report to Congress. It highlighted APA’s work to benefit society and improve lives via a population health approach and by working to address the demand for mental health practitioners. The report details high-priority evidence gaps for clinical preventive services in mental health and wellness for all ages and specific high-risk populations.
Ruiz noted, “Psychology plays an important role in the population health movement and adding psychology’s voice and unique expertise to national health care guidelines provides insight into behavioral aspects of care and implementation. The USPSTF also focuses on issues of mental health and health equity, issues which are central to APA’s expertise and mission. Further, guidelines from the USPSTF receiving an A or B recommendation are covered services, making its work in preventive health a significant health equity mechanism.”
View the full report (PDF, 1.4MB)opens in new window online.
View highlights of the USPSTF’s recommendations over the past year (PDF, 110KB)opens in new window relevant to mental and behavioral health.
For more information, contact Raquel Halfond, PhD.