This document provides an overview of essential information necessary for understanding mental health and substance use disorder parity and how to implement and comply with federal parity laws. This guide applies to parity laws in employer-sponsored health plans and group and individual insurance.

This report presents spending information for treatment of mental illness, substance use disorders, or both for people only enrolled in Medicaid, and those enrolled in both Medicaid and Medicare. The report also covers fee-for-service spending and managed care spending.

This white paper report identifies and proposes strategies to address Medicaid and other reimbursement policies that may pose barriers to mental health services in primary care settings. It presents findings, discussion by an expert panel, and recommended action steps.