CQ (10/16, Attias, Subscription Publication) reports that former Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy (D-RI) “is attempting to use his famous family’s brand and his own experiences to advance the cause of mental health.” The retired congressman “is seeking to elevate the attention this issue receives at a time when the 2010 health care law should expand access to treatment options and a long-awaited rule for a mental-health parity law is soon to be released.” Mental health professionals as well as many members of Congress believe that “Kennedy has the authority to reach beyond partisanship as he tries to unite diverse advocacy groups behind a common agenda.”
