Reps. Brownlee, Craig Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Ensure Parity in Telehealth for Outpatient Mental Health Coverage

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Karen Brownlee (D-Symmes Twp) and Meredith Craig (R-Smithville) today introduced a bill that requires private insurance companies in Ohio to cover telehealth for outpatient mental health services. House Bill (HB) 709 fills an important gap at a time when Ohio is facing an unprecedented shortage of mental health providers.

“Not everyone can attend in-person mental health visits, especially with the shortage of behavioral health providers across most of the state. Outpatient mental health sessions are just as effective as in-person services for most, and improve ongoing participation rates and positive outcomes,” said Rep. Brownlee. “HB 709 ensures that the option for Ohioans to participate in virtual mental health visits is affordable, accessible, and equitable.”

HB 709 will be assigned to a committee in the coming weeks.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Brownlee providing sponsor testimony is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats.