Overview

• The rule updates the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, requiring equal coverage for mental and physical health care.
• Health insurers must now evaluate and report on their mental health provider networks and payment structures.
• Insurers are prohibited from using more restrictive prior authorizations for mental health care than for physical care.
• The regulation closes a loophole, extending protections to state and local government health plans.
• Critics argue the rule may increase costs for employer-sponsored health plans and enrollees.