Bill increasing access to mental health care clears Health and Human Services Committee

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt was backed by the Senate Health and Human Services Committee on Monday. Senate Bill 1836 will help Oklahomans maintain good mental health and prevent crises.

“Just like with any illness, when a condition is caught early, outcomes are better and the cost is lower. The challenge we face in Oklahoma is that mental health care is often too expensive – and even for those with resources, there aren’t enough caregivers, especially in rural communities,” said Kirt, D-Oklahoma City. “Primary care providers can do annual screenings and treat conditions before patients are in crisis.”

 SB 1836 requires providers to use an evidence-based mental health screening instrument to screen patients for conditions during a routine visit. It would only apply to primary care providers, including medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses.

“Studies tell us there are too many missed opportunities to catch illnesses that can lead to long-term hospitalizations and even suicides,” Kirt said. “SB 1836 will provide greater access to early intervention and treatment, lower costs, and even save lives. I appreciate the chairman hearing the bill and the committee for approving it.”

The measure must next be approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee in order to be heard on the floor. The final Appropriations meeting before the committee deadline is this Wednesday. 

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Julia Kirt at 405-521-5636 or Julia.Kirt@oksenate.gov