The Fund supports networks of state health policy decision makers to help identify, inspire, and inform policy leaders.
A bipartisan group of state health policymakers from both the executive and legislative branches who are focused on improving population health.
Networks of state officials, advocates, and others aiming to invest in and transform primary care.
A program dedicated to advancing state-based efforts to make health care more affordable for residents, employers, and states.
The Milbank Memorial Fund supports two state leadership programs for legislative and executive branch state government officials committed to improving population health.
A leadership development program for early and mid-career state government officials who are committed to improving the health of all people in their communities.
A leadership program for senior state government officials who are committed to improving population health.
The Fund focuses on creating an affordable health care system built on strong primary care and partnerships that improve health outcomes for all.
Improving state leaders’ ability to enact and implement evidence-based health policies.
Advancing policies that create a more prevention- and primary care-oriented health system.
Improving population health through policies that contain health care cost growth.
Our state health policy resources offer relevant data analysis and best practices.
The Fund publishes reports, issues briefs, and case studies on state health policy issues.
Short takes on health policy issues from Milbank staff and guest authors.
Insights from Milbank President Debra Lubar on state health policymaking.
Reported articles and Q&As on timely health policy issues, as well as foundation updates.
Milbank Memorial Fund and Milbank Quarterly webinars featuring state health policymakers and researchers.
Updates and expert contact information for reporters.
The Milbank Memorial Fund is a private foundation that works to improve population health and health equity.
March 1994 (Volume 72)
Quarterly Article
Thomas G. McGuire
Sep 17, 2026
Sep 14, 2026
Sep 9, 2026
Back to The Milbank Quarterly
Actuarial and economic methods are combined to predict the costs of mental health and substance abuse benefits in insurance. Costs are predicted for two employers under alternative benefit plans that contain some of the features proposed under national health reform. The cost of a given benefit differs greatly across population groups. In order to make accurate cost forecasts, data on the group’s experience must be combined with research data on the impact of plan changes. Application of employers’ experience and research from mental health economics can contribute to better public and private decisions, including those that are part of current health reform.
Author(s): Thomas G. McGuire
Download the Article
Read on JSTOR
Volume 72, Issue 1 (pages 3–23) Published in 1994