Hartzler votes to fix broken mental health system

Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (R-Mo.) released the following statement on House passage of H.R. 2646, the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, a bill she co-sponsored:

“We have all experienced the pain and suffering that stems from mental illness, but none more so than the families of those afflicted. They are often left feeling too helpless and hopeless to act. Our current mental health system is outdated and offers no assistance to those going through mental health crises at home. It must be reformed. This bill takes us a step in the right direction to help patients get the treatment they need.”

In 2013, approximately 1 in 5 Americans experienced mental illness. That is about 43.8 million, or 18.5% of the population. Further, approximately 1 in 25 adults experience a serious mental illness each year that substantially interferes with one or more major life activities.

This legislation makes significant reforms to our nation’s mental health system including increasing the number of psychiatric hospital beds available to treat patients, increasing mental healthcare in small and rural communities, and utilizing innovation to improve the care provided to patients. Additionally, the bill would create an appointed Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Abuse as well as authorize a Medicaid reimbursement for institutional care of mentally ill patients. For safety, the bill would change HIPAA to allow health care professionals to communicate with the caregivers of a mentally ill person when necessary. To ensure a limited federal government, the bill would also give block grants to states for mental health treatment.

Congresswoman Hartzler represents the people of Missouri’s Fourth Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. She serves on the House Agriculture, Armed Services, and Budget Committees.