It has been observed that people in the United States are more likely to report mental health concerns stemming from the pandemic than individuals in other high-income countries (The Commonwealth Fund). The economic effects of COVID-19, and the social isolation necessary to contain the spread of the virus, are weighing heavily on emotional well-being. This solutions-focused discussion will explore policy interventions at the federal, state, and local levels to advance mental health during the ongoing pandemic. Panelists will also outline options for the U.S.’s largest publicly financed health programs—Medicare and Medicaid—to better finance and deliver mental health services.
