Lisa Gomez: Efforts to Increase Health Care Access Must Acknowledge Systemic Barriers

Individuals from minority groups face specific barriers even after they’ve decided to seek mental health care. Language differences, cultural mistrust, and societal norms that discourage prioritizing personal mental health were just a few discussed in an interview with Lisa M. Gomez, assistant secretary of the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA), US Department of Labor.

While many people don't associate the Department of Labor with their health coverage, EBSA's mission is to protect employees' health and retirement benefits, including those from a spouse or parent, Gomez previously explained. Ensuring that employment-based health plans offer mental health care at the same level as physical health care in accordance with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act is a key priority. However, she explained how these barriers exist systemically and societally, emphasizing that EBSA has resources available to help those seeking care.

“If [EBSA is], on the one side, trying to make sure that there are providers available and that people are complying with the law, as far as health plans, and that people have access to treatment, if we don't pay attention to these systematic barriers that are there, we're never going to be able to make the connection… and to think about how we can we best serve all of the people in America's workforce and their families,” Gomez said.

Language as a Barrier

One major barrier is the complexity of health care language itself. "Healthcare and health coverage can be so complicated," she explained. Many individuals, even those well-versed in the field, struggle to understand technical terms such as "explanation of benefits" or "plan provisions." This complexity is further exacerbated for those who do not speak English as their first language.

To combat this, EBSA offers publications and assistance in various languages. This includes having multilingual staff to answer calls and provide guidance. By breaking down language barriers, the agency aims to make mental health care more accessible and less intimidating for non-native English speakers.

Cultural Differences and Trust Issues

Misunderstood differences in cultural literacy can pose significant obstacles. People should be able to seek information and help from trusted sources within their communities, whether it's a provider, media source, or a community center, Gomez said. Recognizing this, EBSA has made a concerted effort to engage with media outlets and community leaders who serve different ethnic communities. This strategy aims to disseminate information through familiar and trusted channels, encouraging more individuals to seek help.

Societal Norms and Gender-Specific Challenges

Societal norms, particularly among women, caregivers, and certain ethnic groups, often discourage individuals from prioritizing their mental health. Speaking from personal experience, Gomez explained it's easy to develop a tendency to prioritize others over your own mental health, stressing the importance of self-care, noting that to be their best selves, individuals must prioritize their own well-being first. To address this, she advocated for a shift in perspective.

"We see people who are living with postpartum issues, or people who are dealing with elderly parents, disabled loved ones—how much that really affects that person," she said. "In the same way that when you get on an airplane, and they're constantly reminding you to take the oxygen down for yourself first, that is an act that you should take for yourself, not only to help yourself but to help the people that you are trying to give care to."

A Comprehensive Approach

EBSA's approach to addressing these barriers is multifaceted, focusing on education, communication, and cultural competence. By providing information in multiple languages, engaging trusted community figures, and promoting self-care, EBSA aims to make mental health care more inclusive and accessible.

The EBSA website provides publications, tools, videos, and educational information that outlines the rights employees are entitled to in their health care coverage which also serves as a guide for employers and providers to ensure compliance. Additionally, EBSA benefits advisors are available to answer any questions online or via telephone.

Reference

Grossi G. Lisa Gomez explains how EBSA is addressing barriers to minority mental health. AJMC®. Published July 24, 2024. Accessed July 30, 2024. https://www.ajmc.com/view/lisa-gomez-explains-how-ebsa-is-addressing-barriers-to-minority-mental-health