Chris Murphy: “study after study associates untreated depression with increased rates of chronic illness and increased health care…”

“study after study associates untreated depression with increased rates of chronic illness and increased health care costs. For cancer, heart disease, asthma, arthritis, diabetes the incidence of depression can be double that of the general population. Untreated depression complicates treatment and can double health care costs. Untreated depression can cost employers $51 billion per year. Depression management programs, however, can save employers an average of $2,600 per employee through increased productivity and reduced absenteeism. The time has come to improve health care by integrating and coordinating medical and mental health services for more effective diagnosis and treatment. Rather than just cut the payments for health care, Congress can lead the way to saving lives and money through integrated care. Science supports this, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to transform our health care system through innovation, information, and incentives to lower health care costs for every American. I ask my colleagues to learn more about integrated care by visiting my website at Murphy.house.gov. ____________________”