Mental Health Parity Advisory Committee
Jake's Law brings together mental health providers and advocates, patients and family members, health insurers to help guide implementation of mental health parity in Arizona.
Purpose of the Committee:
The committee is established to advise the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions and the Arizona Department of Health Services on matters pertinent to mental health parity, including recommendations related to case management, discharge planning and expedited review and appeals processes for cases involving suicidal ideation. The Committee is in effect until July 1, 2028. (ARS 20-3505)
Current committee members:
| Name | Representing |
| Vonecia Hill, LPC | Family Member |
| Amanda Smith | Family Member |
| Derek Wertheim - Lead Patient Care Manager | Aurora Behavioral Health Systems |
| Dr. Don J. Fowls, President | Arizona Psychiatric Society |
| Vacant | Family Member |
| Nichol Porter | Family Member |
| Karrie Steving, Children’s System of Care Administrator | Aetna/Mercy Care |
| Kathy Busby | Arizona Council of Human Services Providers |
| Monica Courey - Vice President, Legislative & Government Affairs | Arizona Complete Health |
| Vacant | Insurer Rep |
| Vista Thompson, Director, Legal Services | Blue Cross Blue Shield of AZ |