Assemblyman Tom Daly

Candidate for Assembly, District 69

4 QUESTIONS + ANSWERS

Why does behavioral health matter?
Behavioral health matters because it affects everyone – not only the one diagnosed. It even goes beyond friends and family to include community and society.

What steps should California take to increase access to care for those with mental illness and substance use challenges?
According to the National Academy of Science, almost 30% of American adults have either a mental health or substance abuse disorder. California should explore the development of a new payment approach that recognizes the cost of managing the care of patients who have interacting medical and behavioral health conditions as most patients with severe medical conditions also experience mental health problems. California should also explore investing in programs to expand and diversify the clinical workforce to improve service to our underserved communities.

How can California lead the way in destigmatizing behavioral health conditions?
Educate the public that a behavioral health condition is a disease similar to cancer and diabetes.

Will you commit to embracing behavioral health as a public policy priority?
Yes, absolutely.

Your question

If you could ask a question for leaders about behavioral health, what would it be?

Question*
First Name*

Last Name*

Email

Zip Code*