Press Release

*DIFS Director Anita Fox Issues Statement After Governor Whitmer Signs State?s New Mental Health Parity Law*

*Media Contact:?**Laura Hall*, (517) 290-3779, [email protected]
*Consumer Hotline:* 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints [ [link removed] ]

*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:* May 21, 2024?

(LANSING, MICH) Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox issued the following statement in response to Governor Gretchen Whitmer signing Senate Bill 27, which will ensure that Michigan residents have equitable access to necessary mental health treatments by requiring health insurers to cover treatments for mental health and substance use disorder at the same level as physical health services.

?Mental health care is just as important as physical health care and I am pleased that the Governor has signed legislation that will help Michiganders get the care they need to get better and to prioritize their overall wellbeing,? said *DIFS Director Anita Fox*. ?In our role as a consumer protection agency, DIFS will continue to do everything within our power to ensure that Michiganders can get coverage for the mental and physical health treatments they need to stay healthy. Anyone who has questions or concerns about their health insurance coverage can contact DIFS at 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.?

In addition to supporting the signing of Senate Bill 27, the Department is also offering important reminders for Mental Health Awareness Month. It is estimated that approximately 40% of Michiganders with mental health concerns do not seek treatment. DIFS encourages Michiganders to review their health insurance coverage to make sure they have coverage for mental health or substance use disorder treatments before seeking these services. Consumers should also make sure that they understand their out-of-pocket expenses, such as any copays, deductibles, or cost-sharing requirements included in their policy. For more information about policy benefits and responsibilities, Michiganders should contact their insurer or employer, or review the documentation provided by their health plan.

DIFS stands ready to help Michiganders get the most out of their health insurance and reduce barriers that may discourage them from seeking mental health care, including individuals who are having difficulty finding the ADHD medication [ [link removed] ] they need. If consumers have concerns about mental health-related insurance claims that cannot be resolved directly with their insurer, contact DIFS by calling 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by filing a complaint at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints [ [link removed] ].

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS [ [link removed] ]?or follow the Department on Facebook [ [link removed] ], X [ [link removed] ], or LinkedIn [ [link removed] ].

Bill Signing 1

Bill Signing 2

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