We face a national crisis on mental health
Transforming the behavioral health system requires a bold, coordinated strategy grounded in data and driven by broad-based, collective action.
Our Approach
Our theory of change takes on a systems approach, focusing on three interconnected pillars that accelerate meaningful change by:
Advocating and advancing policy change at all levels across the U.S.
The Action for Progress Coalition harnesses stakeholders to force policy change through direct lobbying of state and federal policymakers for system transformation and sustainability.
Elevating and supporting evidence-based and system design
The Action for Progress Institute convenes experts and supports regional best practices and policies that expand quality behavioral health services and system design. Supported by regional data collaboratives.
We need policymakers to take
action for progress
The campaign, led by former Congressman Patrick J Kennedy, is a robust advocacy engine committed to transforming behavioral health policy into lasting, system-wide improvements. We are working to operationalize a multi-pronged advocacy strategy at all levels across the U.S. that includes
Federal and State direct lobbying
- Build and re-energize policy champions at all levels
- Target Senate Finance and House Mental Health Caucus, engage White House for Mental Health Summit
- Expand efforts in key opportunity states like Arkansas, Utah, Illinois, Colorado and more
Political Campaign Contributions
- Pool campaign contributions to influence and build policy champions
Grassroots Activation
- Engage individual consumers, practitioners and businesses within key districts
- Utilize letter writing, phone, and other grassroots strategies like Hill Days, and public campaigns
“Now is the time to act. By leveraging our resources and influence, we can ensure access to essential services and collaborate to make them gateways to broader care…”
– Patrick J Kennedy
Our Goals
Our aim is to develop a consensus-based policy platform centered on key pillars for system transformation. Built on a foundation of evidence-based priorities and fueled by strategic collaboration, the initiative targets critical areas of reform:

Payment
Advance Payment structures that support the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective care that reduce overall costs but are not widely adopted.

Quality & Outcomes
Drive consensus on definition and measurement of quality and outcomes in behavioral health.

Workforce
Develop a pipeline and supports for behavioral health workers, including important specialties like pediatric or SUD specialists, community health workers, and peer support specialists.

Data Infrastructure
Improve data sharing between physical, behavioral, and social health systems to promote whole-person, integrated care and value-based reimbursemen

Evidence-Based Innovation
Promote the wide-spread adoption of novel innovations, evidence-based treatments, and preventive services that improve outcomes for priority populations
Join Us!
Joining the campaign is an opportunity to:
- Collaborate and join national thought leaders
- Influence national infrastructure development and payment reforms
- Gain access to a wealth of shared knowledge, research and tools that will enhance your advocacy efforts
- Be at the forefront of shaping policies that impact mental health care.
If you would like to learn more, please contact us at Action4progress@healthsperien.com or fill out the form below!