Question

The recipients of behavioral health services in the U.S. represent only a small percentage of those in need of services.

Discuss the factors that impede access to behavioral health treatment

Answer 1

Behavioral health treatments are ways of helping people with mental illness or substance use disorders.The most effective behavioral health approach involves a combination of counseling and medication.A trained professional should do a full evaluation to make the diagnosis.Treatment must focus on each persons needs and symptoms.Factors that impending access to behavioral health treatment includes the following,

• Limited availability of medication and health professionals
• Limited affordability-The rising cost of prescription drugs,high co-pays and deductibles in addition to limited and uncovered mental health services may be the deciding factor in whether someone seeks treatment.
• Policy limitations
• Lack of education
• Stigma and discrimination -Stigma associated with mental illness often prevents patients from seeking and adhering to treatment as patients may attempt to distance themselves from the labels that mark them social exclusion.
• Access-According to U.S Health Resources &Services Administration,60% of Americans lives in a mental health provider shortage area because the mental healthcare system does not have enough providers to meet current demand.
• Refusal-Adult patients have the right to refuse treatment.This may become a major barrier and challenge for parents with adult children who need treatment.