News-Record.com

The following is a Counterpoint:

By Fran Pearson, Ellen Jones and Billie M. Pierce

On behalf of mental health and substance abuse consumers across Guilford County, we would like to thank the News & Record for the outstanding editorial on state mental health parity legislation which appeared in the June 29 edition. The author's thorough analysis of the Proposed Committee Substitute (PCS) for House Bill 973, passed by the Senate Health Committee on Wednesday, June 27, offered readers a clear understanding of the need for equity in physical health/mental health insurance along with a broader perspective on the bill's shortcomings and anticipated outcomes.

As was pointed out in the editorial, substance abuse and certain other treatment areas are slighted by the proposed policy and will present a complex set of challenges for providers in treating consumers with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders. The article also noted a controversial exclusion in the requirement for small businesses to comply with the legislation.

We agree wholeheartedly with your conclusion: Although PCS House Bill 973 is not a perfect piece of legislation, it is imperative that it is enacted. Your point that "fine tuning"can take place once it is passed is well taken.

Those of us working in the mental health field appreciate your newspaper staff's efforts in promoting public awareness on policy-making decisions related to behavioral health care. Mental health parity encourages consumers to seek and maintain treatment so that they can lead happier, more productive lives. This, in turn, has a positive impact on the quality of life for all Guilford County residents.

Pearson is executive director, the Mental Health Association in Greensboro; Jones is executive director, the Mental Health Association in High Point; and Pierce is director, the Guilford Center.