s_sa_2018a_2018-05-03t11:12:15z2 Hearing Summary

Senator Williams and Senator Gardner explained House Bill 18-1357, concerning access to behavioral health care services, and, in connection therewith, establishing an ombudsman for behavioral health access to care to assist consumers in accessing care, requiring the commissioner of insurance to report on compliance with mental health parity laws, and making an appropriation.   They further discussed the merits of an ombudsman and the stakeholder process.

Joshua Ewing, representing the Colorado Hospital Association, spoke in support of the bill.  He discussed the positive aspects of an ombudsman, including advocacy. 

Rebecca Swanson, representing Mental Health Colorado, spoke in support of the bill.  She discussed the difficulties many people, especially those who are suffering from mental illness or depression, have in navigating a complex health care system.

Fran Maes, representing the Colorado Cross Disability Coalition, testified in support of the bill.  She discussed the difficulty in navigating the system and resorting to self-medicating. 

Christina Johnson, representing the Colorado Senior Lobby, spoke in support of the bill.  She discussed the prevalence of depression in the senior population.

Aubrey Boggs, representing the Colorado Mental Wellness Network, testified in favor of the measure.  She provided a personal account of needing support and having difficulty finding it in a complicated system.  

Committee members asked questions about marketing this new service and outreach. 

Senators Gardner and Williams wrapped up and presented amendment L.006 (Attachment F).  Senator Gardner explained that the amendment is a request from insurance carriers to narrow the definition of a behavioral health provider and also addresses licensing for health care facilities.