WASHINGTON, Feb. 14 (UPI) -- A U.S. Senate bill requiring equal coverage for mental illness moved forward Wednesday, moving out of committee and picking up a powerful ally.
The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee voted 18 to 3 to move the Mental Health Parity Act of 2007 to the Senate floor. The bipartisan legislation would shore up loopholes in current law allowing insurers to impose benefit limits and higher out-of-pocket costs for mental healthcare, compared to treatment for physical ailments.
Meanwhile, health insurance giant Aetna, which has about 35 million beneficiaries, endorsed the bill.
"Aetna is supportive of the principles and approach embodied in this legislation," said Mary Fox, head of medical products at the insurer. "If passed, we believe our members will benefit by being better able to achieve their optimal health through more integrated health and behavioral programs, benefits and services."
By imposing national requirements, the bill could also eliminate some inconsistencies in state regulations, according to the company, and will allow for more care management.
