Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich) introduced again a bill for single-payer, universal health insurance for comprehensive care. The bill specifies easy registration, a list of comprehensive services, and details about how service providers can participate and will be paid. HR 676 explicitly addresses mental health:

(a) In General- The Program shall provide coverage for all medically necessary mental health care on the same basis as the coverage for other conditions. Licensed mental health clinicians shall be paid in the same manner as specified for other health professionals, as provided for in section 202(b).

(b) Favoring Community-Based Care- The USNHC Program shall cover supportive residences, occupational therapy, and ongoing mental health and counseling services outside the hospital for patients with serious mental illness. In all cases the highest quality and most effective care shall be delivered, and, for some individuals, this may mean institutional care.

Conyers introduced a similar bill two years ago that had 93 co-sponsors. The bill introduced last week has 33 co-sponsors and the endorsement of Physicians for National Health Reform, which has been steadfast in calling for reforms includ single payer.

Update
At a Washington symposioum, Sen. Max Baucus says single-payer is off the table.

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