Rep. Matsui Honored by the American Psychiatric Association

Washington, D.C. Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) today received the Jacob K. Javits Award from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) for her hard work passing legislation that improves access to healthcare services for mental health and substance use patients.

Last Congress, the Energy and Commerce Committee tackled the opioid and substance use epidemic, with H.R. 6, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act. Congresswoman Matsui authored several provisions for the legislative package, including the Access to Telehealth Services for Substance Use Disorders, which helped expand access to treatment for patients suffering from substance use disorders.

In 2014, Congresswoman Matsui helped enact the Excellence in Mental Health Act, which established Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers or CCBHCs. These clinics have expanded mental health and substance use treatment by dramatically increasing access to 24-hour care. Now, she is working to re-authorize the program.

"I'm honored to receive the Jacob K. Javits Award from the American Psychiatric Association for my work on mental health and substance use," said Congresswoman Doris Matsui. "In Congress, my top priority is improving every aspect our healthcare system from affordability to accessibility, particularly for mental health and substance use patients. I'm committed to continuing this leadership by working towards comprehensive mental health reform and increased substance use treatment."

"Rep. Matsui has proven herself to be devoted mental health advocate through her leadership that has led to the passage of critical mental health policies benefiting patients across the country," said APA President-Elect Bruce Schwartz, M.D.

APA CEO and Medical Director Saul Levin, M.D., M.P.A., once lived in Rep. Matsui's district during his medical training. "Like her late husband, Rep. Bob Matsui, Rep. Doris Matsui is a true model of fairness and public service. She is a notable advocate of mental health and is well-deserving of this award."