Resources
The Federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008
March 8, 2010
California has limited legal protections providing for equal protection, or parity relating to the treatment of mental and physical illnesses. These laws apply to individuals and employer groups who carry medical insurance.
The federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, which become effective October 3, 2009, covers more mental health issues than California law, such as substance abuse, but applies only to employers with more than 50 employees.
For info on the federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 – click on the following links:
Fact Sheet - Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008
The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act
Tips
•Review your health benefits plan with your benefits provider to ensure you understand how these requirements impact your business.
•Consult with legal counsel regarding any policy changes or other communication you may need to provide to employees as a result of these changes.
•Understand your obligations under both federal and California law, as well as the requirements that the law places only on benefits providers and not on employers - consult with a benefits specialist.
Should you have any questions, please contact Sherrie Zenter at 818-933-2739 or szenter@mmibi.com.
