AG ​James  secured more than $2.5 million from health insurer EmblemHealth (Emblem) after an Office of the Attorney General (OAG) investigation revealed the company repeatedly failed to ensure New Yorkers could access mental health care services.  Under today’s settlement, Emblem will pay $2.5 million in penalties and fees, provide restitution to members who were forced to pay out of pocket for mental health care, and implement sweeping reforms to improve access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment.

“As millions of New Yorkers struggle with anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, ensuring access to quality, affordable mental health care is more essential than ever. Health insurers cannot mislead consumers with inaccurate provider directories while families are left without care. We are requiring Emblem to make meaningful changes so that New Yorkers can actually access the behavioral health treatment their insurance promises.” – AG James