Psychiatric News (3/27) reported that on March 27, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) “praised Congress for approving a $2 trillion stimulus aid package to provide fiscal relief for Americans and businesses in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.” Known as the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the bill “includes many provisions supported by APA that will enable psychiatrists and mental health care professionals to better respond to the pandemic.” Trump signed the measure. APA President Bruce Schwartz, MD, said, “This stimulus bill will strengthen our ability to help the millions of Americans with existing mental illnesses or substance use disorders, and more with emerging mental health issues as the pandemic unfolds.” APA CEO and Medical Director Saul Levin, MD, MPA, stated, “As we respond to one of the largest public health threats facing our country in decades, funding for behavioral health initiatives and expanding telemedicine is critical.”
Related Links:
— “APA Praises Mental Health Provisions in COVID-19 Stimulus Aid Package, Psychiatric News, March 27, 2020