Developing and Evaluating Behavioral Health Solutions

Behavioral health is increasingly recognized as an important part of overall health—and an area where health plan sponsors, providers and actuaries have opportunities to improve outcomes. In this episode of the Research Insights Podcast, Kara Clark, Senior Research Actuary at the Society of Actuaries Research Institute, is joined by Joan C. Barrett, FSA, MAAA, author of the report Developing and Evaluating Behavioral Health Solutions. Their conversation explores the connection between behavioral and physical health, how behavioral health disorders are diagnosed and treated, and the barriers patients may face when seeking care. Joan also discusses emerging opportunities, including digital health applications, advances in treatment and genetics, evolving provider strategies, and the growing role of health plan sponsors in addressing behavioral health. The episode also examines how actuaries can evaluate behavioral health solutions from both financial and stakeholder perspectives, with the goal of lowering total cost of care, improving quality of care and improving quality of life for patients and caregivers. Tune in to learn more about the challenges, opportunities and evolving strategies shaping behavioral health today. Series Landing page:  https://www.soa.org/resources/research-reports/2026/behavioral-health Feedback at ResearchInsights@soa.org