Capito Helps Introduce Legislation to Improve Treatment and Prevention of Eating Disorders

Press Release

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) this week joined Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) to introduce the bipartisan Anna Westin Act to help combat eating disorders.

As many as 30 million Americans suffer from an eating disorder, but only one in 10 people with an eating disorder receive treatment. The bill will use existing funds to create grant programs to train school personnel, primary care physicians, and mental health and public health professionals on how to identify and prevent eating disorders, as well as how to intervene when behaviors associated with eating disorders are identified. The bill also clarifies that the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires health insurance companies to cover residential treatment for eating disorders.

"The dangers of eating disorders are grave. While millions of Americans are affected, few receive the treatment they need," said Senator Capito. "Individuals suffering from eating disorders should have access to the same mental health services as those facing other types of illnesses. The Anna Westin Act would expand access to treatment while enhancing awareness and prevention efforts."

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