Shifting the Policy Paradigm to Achieve Equity

Abstract

This article offers a brief history of mental health policies that have shaped current inequities in health care financing and service delivery. Mental health has a unique position within the health care system given the pervasive nature of stigma associated with illness; race and ethnicity often amplify this burden. The acknowledgment of disparities in mental health and the development of policies that address the needs of minority groups are relatively recent phenomena. Highlighted are legislative actions that have influenced reforms of the health care landscape. This text outlines opportunities to advance a targeted, community-based approach to mental health policy development.

Keywords: Advocacy; Health disparities; Health equity; Health policy; Mental health policy; Minority mental health; Racial disparities.