Statement from Campaign for Healthy Minds Healthy Kids on Telehealth Initiatives Outlined in Governor Cuomo’s 2021 State of the State Address

“We applaud Governor Cuomo for his commitment to expanding, improving and lowering costs for telehealth access — especially for behavioral health care. With the reforms outlined, including increasing reimbursements and eliminating inefficient regulations on delivery and location, remote teletherapy could become a reality for children across the state unable to access the high-quality behavioral health care they need. The State’s approach must identify those families who currently struggle to access telehealth services and ensure there is an equitable approach to telehealth and healthcare more broadly.

“We look forward to working with the Governor and Legislature to build on these advances by investing in a robust continuum of behavioral health supports for children, including in early child care and education settings. Building on teletherapy options and existing school-based resources will be critical as we seek to address the trauma and heightened behavioral health needs children are experiencing due to the pandemic and political unrest, and to ensure that they not only recover but thrive in the years ahead.”