A bill aimed at increasing access to mental health care in Michigan could be voted on in the Michigan House of Representatives at any time.
The bill was introduced in 2023 by state Rep. Felicia Brabec, a clinical psychologist. She said HB 4707 prioritizes treatment recommendations for mental health and substance use patients, rather than allowing insurance companies alone to make decisions about an individual’s care. It also allows insurers to find out-of-network options when in-network options are not available, without imposing additional costs on patients.
“Insurance companies have their own criteria when deciding whether people can access services, and I think they should use the same important criteria that we do,” Brabec said. Stated. “Just like if a doctor says, ‘This is what the patient needs,’ you should do it.”
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has spent more than $75 million on lobbying over the past 20 years. The company said in an emailed statement that it opposes the bill, but that it offers “innovative solutions that address the hurdles Michiganders face to receive the behavioral health care they need and improve their overall health.” We remain committed to working with policymakers to find out.”
Supporters of HB 4707 say it would reduce costly emergency room and hospital visits, thereby lowering overall costs of care and allowing people to receive care more efficiently. claims.
