Patrick Kennedy wants Pa. to go after health insurers if they break the law

(Harrisburg) — Patrick Kennedy is calling on Pennsylvania to do more to help people with substance abuse or mental health issues: he wants the state to go after health insurers.

A 2008 federal law requires equal benefits, but few states have enforced it.

Kennedy says insurance companies don’t treat people with substance abuse or mental health issues the same as those with physical problems.

Speaking at a state House committee hearing, he says failing to hold insurance companies accountable is costing the state – because people who don’t get the right treatment often need much more care.

“Don’t let insurance companies continue to shift everybody off on the taxpayer rolls. Require them to do what they’re supposed to do, and that’s cover these illnesses,” says Kennedy.

Kennedy, who is recovering from a drug addiction, says insurance companies frequently require people to get sicker before they can get all the help they pay for over time.

“We would never say to someone with diabetes, we need to wait to until you have to have your legs amputated or you go blind for your illness before we offer treatment. But that’s exactly what we do today for those suffering from addiction and mental illness,” he adds.

Other panelists praised New York – where the state Attorney General has sued health insurance plans for breaking the law and reached settlements.

Kennedy says Pennsylvania’s Insurance Department should take the lead in the commonwealth.