states and local jurisdictions that provide increases funding to social services and community health care tend to have better health and mental health outcomes (Bradley at al., 2016). Supported housing programs, which combine housing and support services to assist individuals facing homelessness or health and behavioral health challenges, have demonstrated great promise as an integrated method of treating severe mental illness and as a potential way to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in health outcomes ( Nelson, Aubry & Lafrance, 2007).

by expanding public insurance programs, subsidizing private plans for low- and middle income individuals, and identifying mental health and substance abuse treatment as essential benefits, the ACA, Affordable Care Act, targeted health care access disparities for low-income and racial and ethnic minority population (Zuckerman & Holahan, 2012). Policies that monitor the availability of providers and facilities that offer, fund, or facilitate behavioral health care could be key in reducing both access and outcome disparities.

Enhancing care quality through tailored evidence-based treatments for racial and ethnic minorities reduces outcome disparities. Targeted enhancements address unique needs, boosting engagement and retention while decreasing premature treatment termination.

Proactive measures against cultural and systemic barriers foster equitable mental health care, aiming for an inclusive healthcare landscape for all, regardless of race or ethnicity.