Health Reform: What It Means for People With Substance Use and Mental Disorders

Description:

With the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, commonly known as health reform, important and far-reaching changes are underway in our Nation’s health system. The Affordable Care Act gives Americans more freedom and control over their healthcare, as well as new benefits that ensure you will receive the care you need at a more reasonable cost. In addition, changes will include the adoption of electronic health records, allowing the comprehensive management and secure exchange of health information among insurers, primary care practitioners, general practitioners, pharmacists, and those in specialty fields such as pediatrics, cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and treatment and recovery in behavioral health. There are many questions about what health reform changes will take effect and when the changes will be implemented. This show will provide information to help answer these questions and suggest other means for consumers to stay informed and determine what health reform will mean to them.

Host:

Ivette Torres, Associate Director for Consumer Affairs, Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).