U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. met with healthcare leaders, medical societies, providers, and behavioral health experts on July 29 to secure a pledge aimed at strengthening the nation’s behavioral health system by advancing best practices for patient care and outcomes for individuals experiencing mental health conditions and addiction.
During a roundtable discussion at HHS headquarters in Washington, participants committed to supporting timely access to high-quality mental health and addiction treatment; evidence-based assessment, diagnosis, treatment, referral, and recovery support; measurement of quality and outcomes; patient-centered care focused on long-term wellness; clinical expertise based on individual needs; and whole-person care that addresses chronic physical conditions alongside behavioral health treatment.
“Americans deserve a behavioral health system that delivers results,” said Secretary Kennedy. “Today, leaders across the health care system are stepping up to improve quality, expand access to evidence-based care, strengthen accountability, and help more people achieve lasting recovery. This pledge is about raising the standard of care and ensuring every patient can heal and thrive.”
White House Senior Advisor for Addiction Recovery Kathryn Burgum said, “President Trump has made it clear that Americans expect a recovery system that works for everyone and treats addiction with the same standard of care as other lifelong, chronic, relapsing diseases like cancer and diabetes. Today’s commitments from hundreds of leaders across healthcare…paves the path for a system that leaves no American behind.”
CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz said, “Strengthening our behavioral health system is a key part of the MAHA movement…By committing to these principles…leaders who signed today’s pledge have taken a significant step toward tackling the twin crises of addiction and mental illness.” Christopher D. Carroll from SAMHSA added, “SAMHSA is proud to join healthcare leaders in advancing a shared vision for a stronger behavioral health system built on evidence, quality, and recovery.”
The event supports President Trump’s Great American Recovery initiative co-chaired by Secretary Kennedy and Kathryn Burgum, as well as aligning with an executive order focused on ending crime and disorder.