What Act, passed in 2008, aimed to improve discrepancies in addiction treatment?

The Mental Health Parity and Addictions Equity Act, passed in 2008, was specifically designed to address the inequalities in how mental health and substance use disorder treatments are covered by health insurance. This legislation aimed to ensure that insurance coverage for addiction treatment was on par with coverage for other medical conditions, thus reducing the stigma and barriers that many individuals face when seeking help for substance use disorders.

By mandating that insurance plans offering mental health benefits also provide equal benefits for addiction treatment, the Act aimed to improve access to care and encourage individuals struggling with these issues to seek treatment without the fear of inadequate coverage. This is particularly significant given that substance use disorders have historically been underfunded and inadequately addressed compared to other health issues, perpetuating challenges in accessing care.

The other options, while relevant to overall health and treatment policy, do not specifically target the disparities in addiction treatment coverage the way the Mental Health Parity and Addictions Equity Act does.