Md. lawmaker working to address mental health disparities with SB328

MARYLAND. – A lot of people go to the doctor for a physical at least once a year, and the dentist at least twice. But mental health can fall on the back burner.

But under Senate Bill 328, Senator Malcolm Augustine said it would now be a priority.

“What this piece of legislation would do is it would do the same thing, but for your mental health, so that you would be able to go, without cost sharing, for a comprehensive mental health visit, annually,” said Augustine.

Augustine said the legislation would open the door to a holistic health approach in the state, and would help de-stigmatize mental health, contributing to a healthier Maryland.

“We wanted to make sure that it was done without the requirement of a diagnosis,” said Augustine. “A lot of the stigma is, people don’t want to have an associated mental health diagnosis, so that’s another key portion to this, so we can help people to get help early support.”

Patrice Ottey, co-owner of Homes 4 Hope, a local organization that supports people struggling with mental health or substance use, believes this initiative would encourage people get the help they need, early on.

“Addressing this and making it a part of preventative care will only help when it comes to the physical aspects,” said Ottey. “If you are struggling with mental health, it definitely affects every part of your existence, if your mental health isn’t well.”