N.H. Insurance Dept. Announces Restart of the Mental Health and Addiction Services Advisory Committee, Introduces Newly-Named Committee Members

CONCORD, New Hampshire, Nov. 28 -- The New Hampshire Department of Insurance issued the following news release on Nov. 27, 2023:

The New Hampshire Insurance Department today announces the revitalization of the Mental Health and Addiction Services Advisory Committee. The committee, which has been dormant since July 2021 due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, will resume its crucial work advising the Insurance Commissioner on issues related to accessing mental health and substance use disorder services through private insurance coverage.

"Mental health and substance use disorder services are essential components of healthcare, and ensuring access for covered individuals is a priority for the New Hampshire Insurance Department," said Insurance Commissioner DJ Bettencourt. "I am looking forward to working closely with stakeholders to address the evolving needs of our community."

The committee's mission encompasses several key objectives aimed at enhancing mental health and substance use disorder services through private insurance coverage. A primary focus is advising the Insurance Commissioner, serving as an advisory body that provides guidance and recommendations. In addition to its advisory function, the committee actively contributes to fostering communication among diverse stakeholders. This collaborative effort includes representatives from providers, insurance companies, and advocates. This approach aims to address potential challenges and opportunities in the implementation of new legal requirements, promoting a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to mental health and substance use disorder service delivery. The committee also plays a pivotal role in discussing regulatory actions within the purview of the Insurance Department's responsibilities.

The resumption of the Mental Health and Addiction Services Advisory Committee underscores the New Hampshire Insurance Department's dedication to improving mental health and substance use disorder services for the residents of New Hampshire.

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Newly-Named Committee Members:

SUD Treatment Providers:

* Marty Boldin, LICSW, MLADC, LCS - Bedford Family Therapy

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Mental Health Providers:

* Dr. Peter Mason, MD - Medical Director of Headrest

* Christopher Kozak - Community Partners

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Health Care Provider Advocates:

* Roland Lamy, MBA - New Hampshire Community Behavioral Health Association

* Courtney Tanner, MSW, Esq. - Dartmouth Health

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SUD Treatment Advocates:

* Michelle Merritt, MPA, Esq. - New Futures

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Mental Health Advocates:

* Holly Stevens, Esq. - NAMI-NH

* Lucy Hodder, Esq. - University of New Hampshire School of Law: Institute for Health Policy and Practice, College of Health and Human Services

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Insurance Companies:

* Shira Irizarry, MBA, LMFT - Anthem

* Sabrina Dunlap, Esq. - Anthem

* Kathryn Skouteris, Esq. - Harvard Pilgrim

* Christopher Kennedy - NH Healthy Families / Centene

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State Legislators:

* Sen. Becky Whitley

* Rep. John Hunt

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New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services:

* Katja Fox, MPA

* Krista Morris, MPA

"The diverse expertise of our committee members will be instrumental in shaping policies that improve access to essential services for covered individuals," said Commissioner Bettencourt. "I am honored to work alongside such dedicated professionals and advocates."

The committee currently has vacant positions in several categories, including SUD Treatment Providers, SUD Inpatient Treatment Facilities, SUD Treatment Advocates, and Consumer Advocates. Individuals interested in contributing to the important work of the Mental Health and Addiction Services Advisory Committee are invited to submit a cover letter and resume to communications@ins.nh.gov. The New Hampshire Insurance Department encourages qualified candidates to apply and play a role in shaping the future of mental health and substance use disorder services in the Granite State.

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The New Hampshire Insurance Department Can Help

The New Hampshire Insurance Department's mission is to promote and protect the public good by ensuring the existence of a safe and competitive insurance marketplace through the development and enforcement of the insurance laws of the State of New Hampshire. Contact us with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your insurance coverage at 1-800- 852-3416 or (603) 271-2261, or by email at consumerservices@ins.nh.gov.

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Original text here: https://www.nh.gov/insurance/media/pr/2023/documents/20231127-committee.pdf