ADVOCATE FOR POLICY SOLUTIONS

In the complex and demanding landscape of healthcare, the well-being and mental health of our dedicated health workers stand as a cornerstone of our society’s overall health. Advocating for robust federal, state, and local policy solutions to support these professionals is not just a moral imperative but also an essential element in maintaining a resilient and effective healthcare system. These policies not only acknowledge the tireless commitment of healthcare workers but also recognize that their well-being directly impacts the quality of care they provide. Everyone can play a role here.

A first step in the creation of federal policy to support health worker professional well-being and mental health was the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act signed into law by President Biden on March 18, 2022. In addition to this first of its kind federal legislation, there are a number of state examples of policy efforts to reduce burnout and improve access to mental health care.

REDUCING BURNOUT

• Reducing Administrative Burden – Prior Authorization Reform in Arizona
• Supporting Health Workers – Workplace Violence Prevention Health Workers in Arizona
• Whistleblower Non-Retaliation in Arizona

SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH ACCESS

• Confidential Protection on Mental Health Records in Virginia
• Confidential Pathways to Access Peer Support for Physicians in Arizona
• Accessing Mental Health Care Outside of Own Health System in Utah
• Removing Intrusive Questions on Prior Mental Health for All Licensed Health Workers in Virginia
• Removing Intrusive Questions on Prior Mental Health for Physicians in Illinois