This document provides an overview of essential information necessary for understanding mental health and substance use disorder parity and how to implement and comply with federal parity laws. This guide applies to parity laws in employer-sponsored health plans and group and individual insurance.

This guide explains prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs), and how they can enhance clinical decision making. The guide also explains how PDMP improves patient safety, while helping to decrease prescription drug misuse and unintentional overdose deaths.

This guide explores barriers to accessing substance use disorder and mental health treatment services in rural communities, and the benefits of telehealth for these communities. It assists practitioners with implementing telehealth technologies as a means to increase access to services.