This study, produced by SAMHSA and Mathematica, examines the effects of the Vermont mental health and substance abuse parity law which went into effect on January 1, 1998. The report examines the implementation process; employer issues; insurer/health plan issues; provider issues; consumer issues; and effects on health care access, utilization, and spending.

From the report:

This study reflects experiences during the first 2 to 3 years of parity in Vermont. It is possible that a longer study period might yield different results. Further, the study is limited to a single State, and the results may not be generalizable to other States in which the mix of providers or services differs. Despite these qualifications, the study shows that parity for MH/SA benefits was achieved in Vermont. Increased use of managed care helped make parity affordable but may have reduced access and utilization for some services and beneficiaries. Limited knowledge of the law complicated implementation for employers, providers, and consumers. Vermont stakeholders recommended that more attention be paid to education and other proactive efforts to better prepare for a change of this magnitude.

Full report: http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/sma03-3822/default.asp

US Department of Health and Human Services. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Center for Mental Health Services and Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2003). Effects of the Vermont mental health and substance abuse parity law. Rosenbach, Margo, Lake, Tim, Young, Cheryl, Conroy, Wendy, Quinn, Brian, Ingels, Julie, Cox, Brenda, Peterson, Anne, Crozier, Lindsay.