DHHS, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE)

This report contains the results of a study to identify, document, and assess the factors that affect access to and utilization of new generation antidepressant and antipsychotic medications. Three primary questions guided the assessment: What are the formal policies and procedures implemented by health care payers that affect consumer access to and utilization of psychiatric medications? Are these policies and procedures different for psychiatric medications than for other medication classes? How does the implementation of these policies and procedures affect access to and utilization of these medications? Do policies, procedures, and modes of implementation (regardless of whether they differ for mental health) create barriers to adequate mental health care?

"Throughout the engagement, Lewin consultants listened to us and delivered superb analyses and thoughtful guidance–not canned solutions."  NONPROFIT HEALTH SYSTEM