Seeking Solutions: The Impact of State Policies on Mental and Behavioral Health

This dissertation examines the impact of state-level policies aimed at improving access to mental and behavioral health treatment in the United States. Using rigorous quasi-experimental methods and a variety of data sources, the three manuscripts analyze the effects of distinct but related policies: naloxone co-prescription laws, psychologist prescription privileges, and mental health parity laws mandating timely access to care. The findings suggest that naloxone co-prescription laws lead to unintended consequences, including an increase in opioid overdose deaths among certain demographics. The analyses of psychologist prescribing privileges show expanding prescribing privileges to psychologists increases the availability of mental health providers without negatively impacting quality of care. Finally, laws limiting wait times for mental health appointments do not show a statistically significant effect on mental health outcomes or healthcare access. This body of work underscores the complexity of addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by mental health and substance use disorders. While policy interventions hold promise for improving access to care, careful consideration of potential unintended consequences and rigorous evaluation are crucial to ensuring their effectiveness and safety. The findings highlight the need for a nuanced understanding of the interplay between policy, healthcare utilization, and patient outcomes in these critical areas of public health.