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Medicare Bill w/Mental Health Equity Becomes Law!

On July 15, 2008, President George W. Bush vetoed the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (H.R. 6331).  However, the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate voted to override the President's veto and the bill now becomes law.  The Senate voted to override the President 70-26 and the House vote was 383-41.

This important bill includes a provision to provide for mental health equity for outpatient services in Medicare.  Medicare mental health equity has been a public policy priority for SPAN USA for several years.  We could not be more pleased that all of our advocates' efforts have paid off.  America's senior citizens and those with disabilities should not have to pay more out of pocket for mental health services than for physical health services.  The provision in H.R. 6331 that creates mental health equity in Medicare does not do so immediately.  The equalization in co-insurance rates is phased in over a six year period.

Thanks to all our grassroots activists who called their U.S. representative and senators! Advocacy in action works and thus, a 2008 SPAN USA Public Policy Priority has become law!

Suicide Prevention Week is Coming

Order NEW STYLE Suicide Prevention Pins Today

Check out our NEW style of suicide prevention pins. Plan ahead and order pins for suicide prevention week now. Go to the Marketplace to place your order.

Recent Publications

A summary of SPAN USA's survey of the leaders/facilitators of support groups for persons bereaved by suicide is available by clicking here. Many thanks to those who shared their input to make this survey possible.  Or download the new guide for funeral directors (developed in collaboration with SPRC). 

Support SPAN USA:
Lifekeeper Jewelry,
Marketplace, & More

Remember those lost and support suicide prevention efforts by giving Lifekeeper Jewelry (charm, pin, necklace, or bracelet). Or visit the SPAN USA Marketplace for other available items such a SPAN USA Polo shirt, educational guides, suicide prevention pins and much more. Consider other things you can do to support SPAN USA.