Patrick J. Kennedy Blog Statement of Patrick J. Kennedy on New York Psychiatric Association v. UnitedHealth Group Ruling

"Yesterday was a major turning point for mental health parity in the United States. In a precedent-setting ruling, the Second Court of Appeals in New York found that individuals whose rights have been violated under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act can sue their health plans directly, rather than their employers or plan sponsors. This is exactly what was intended when the law was passed. As outlined in an amicus brief I filed with the court, the earlier decision eroded this fundamental protection for patients under the law. Today's ruling is a clear victory for patients and...parityNew YorkUnitedHealthpsychiatrymental illnessPatrick J. Kennedy