Ensure Mental Health as Essential Health

The Kennedy Forum remains steadfast in its commitment to instigate profound and lasting change by ensuring mental health as essential health. In addition to conducting our own deep policy work, we foster multi-stakeholder partnerships that engage government, non-profit organizations, private sector companies and investors, and community organizations.

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Our Focus Areas

Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy speaking on Capitol Hill.

Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Coverage Parity

The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008 requires health insurance carriers to cover Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders equitably, and not limit treatment any more than they do for medical/surgical benefits. The Kennedy Forum was founded and continues to work towards full implementation of the Act with partners from government, industry, and the mental health and substance use community. In addition, we are moving to expand parity into all forms of insurance, such as Medicaid, Medicare, Tricare.

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Youth Mental Health

Empowering young people through prevention and early intervention. The Kennedy Forum is dedicated to advancing quality mental health programming in schools and communities that benefits students, families, and educators. In addition, The Kennedy Forum ensures that the needs of young people are centered in mental heath and substance use disorder parity work, promoting equitable coverage across the continuum of care – starting with prevention.

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A Legacy of Leadership

The Kennedy Forum’s history of catalyzing the field around systems change shapes our unwavering commitment to improving the systems of care for mental health and substance use disorders.

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Profiles in Mental Health Courage

Profiles in Mental Health Courage portrays the dramatic journeys of a diverse group of Americans who have struggled with their mental health. This book offers deeply compelling stories about the bravery and resilience of those living with a variety of mental illnesses and addictions.

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Engaging with Our Efforts

Where We Stand

Our policy work focuses on achieving equitable access to mental health and substance use care, enhancing quality of services, supporting young people, and spearheading the movement for comprehensive systemic reform.

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Goals for the Alignment for Progress Movement: 90/90/90 by 2033

As part of the Alignment for Progress, we have articulated goals for 2023: 90% of individuals will be screened for mental health conditions or substance use disorders; 90% will receive the evidence-based services and supports they need, and 90% of those treated will be able to manage their symptoms and achieve recovery.

Collaborating for Systemic Change

The Kennedy Forum's Alignment for Progress unites stakeholders to accelerate progress in the systems of mental health and substance use disorder care to ensure a more inclusive and effective system. We are calling, urgently, for stakeholders from across the mental health and substance use landscape to join us.

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