Brookhaven Hospital: Mental Health Treatment for Behavioral Health Problems, Chemical Dependency, Eating Disorders, Brain Injuries, and Renewal Christian Treatment and Recovery

Tuesday, July 22, 2008 10:30 AM
posted by Rolf B. Gainer, Ph.D.

Leveling the Barriers

A Medicare bill which became effective last week creates a five year phase-in plan to bring mental health co-payments into line with other Medicare co-pay requirements. While we continue to wait for the Mental Health Parity legislation to clear, the Medicare initiative represents an important step to treating mental health conditions on an equal footing with other medical problems. Research studies point out that out-of-pocket costs are the greatest deterrent to a person seeking treatment. As Medicare recipients represent our older and disabled citizens, the easing of the co-pay burden may encourage people to seek earlier treatment for mental health problems.

Medicare's move is a big step forward.

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Rolf B. Gainer, Ph.D., Diplomate ABDA, is the Chief Executive Office at Brookhaven Hospital and the Vice President of Rehabilitation Institutes of America. Dr. Gainer has been involved in the design and operation of treatment programs since 1977.

Stephen Harnish, MD is the Medical Director of Brookhaven Hospital. Dr. Harnish is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and is well known in Oklahoma for his informative radio and television appearances.

Aric Thorpe, MHR, is Brookhaven Hospital's Pastoral Liaison Representative. He conducts the quarterly Minister's Lifeline series and provides mental health information to pastors and clergy.

Sarah McGee, BA, serves as the Community Education Provider for Brookhaven Hospital. She provides information on mental health and drug and alcohol treatment to healthcare professionals in Oklahoma and surrounding states.

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