Primary and Behavioral Health Care Access Act of 2026

Proponents argue this removes financial barriers to preventive care and mental health treatment, reducing emergency department use and improving health outcomes. They cite that primary care and behavioral health visits prevent costly acute episodes. Critics argue the mandate increases insurance premium costs for all enrollees, shifts costs to those not using the services, and interferes with market competition and plan design. Insurance industry argues mandates drive premium increases without corresponding productivity gains. Non-partisan evidence shows copay elimination increases visit utilization 10-30% depending on baseline copay level, per RAND studies; however, the actual cost impact of 6 mandated visits depends on baseline plan design and utilization rates, which vary widely.