Newly Launched Mental Health Parity Index Shows Disparities Across the Nation

A new national tool is shedding light on a longstanding problem in American healthcare: unequal access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment.

The Kennedy Forum recently launched the Mental Health Parity Index (MHPI), a first-of-its-kind, data-driven resource that measures how access to mental health care compares to access to physical health care across the United States. Built using real-time data from the nation’s largest commercial insurers, the index provides an unprecedented look at where parity laws are falling short.

The findings are striking. According to the MHPI, people enrolled in plans offered by the four largest commercial health insurers face potential disparities in access to in-network mental health and substance use disorder treatment in 43 states. Additionally, seven out of ten U.S. counties show similar access gaps.

The index also reveals payment disparities. Mental health providers are consistently reimbursed at lower rates than physical health providers, with differences ranging from 16% to 59% depending on the insurer and location. These lower reimbursement rates can contribute to fewer providers participating in insurance networks, making it harder for patients to find affordable care.

While federal mental health parity laws have been in place for nearly two decades, the new index highlights how significant barriers remain. By making insurer data publicly accessible, the Mental Health Parity Index aims to help policymakers, employers, insurers, providers, and consumers identify shortcomings and drive meaningful improvements in access to care.

As mental health needs continue to rise nationwide, the MHPI provides a powerful new tool for accountability—and a clearer roadmap toward achieving true parity in healthcare. 

What is NPA Doing About Mental Health Parity?

In Nevada, the Nevada Psychological Association (NPA) continues to advocate for meaningful mental health parity and greater accountability from health insurers. While important progress has been made, significant gaps in access to care remain for many Nevadans seeking mental health and substance use disorder treatment. NPA is actively preparing to reengage during the 2027 Nevada Legislative Session, where it will pursue policies aimed at strengthening parity enforcement, increasing transparency, and ensuring that mental health benefits are treated on par with physical health benefits.

Donate to the NPA PAC

Achieving true parity requires sustained advocacy and strong support from the mental health community. By contributing to the NPA Political Action Committee (PAC), supporters can help amplify the voices of mental health professionals and patients at the Legislature and advance policies that improve access to care across Nevada. To support these efforts and help make mental health parity a reality, please consider making a donation to the NPA PAC today.