THE CASE FOR PARITY IN MENTAL-HEALTH INSURANCE THROUGH A SINGLE-PAYERPLAN

A case is made for providing equal health insurance benefits for menta l illness as compared to other medical conditions. On grounds of equit y, efficiency, economy, and to eliminate the unacceptable stigmatizati on of mental health consumers, an argument is presented in support of parity in health insurance coverage. Critiques of the present two-tier ed system are cited from the professional literature, and parity under a single-prayer system is suggested as an egalitarian solution.