In light of recent mass shootings and the identification that most of the shooters have had a history of mental illness, improvements in the availability of mental health services is critical. Gun control is also extremely important, but the primary issue is the identification, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. In today's health care and insurance industry, cuts to funding and coverage for mental health services has crippled our ability to care for this increasingly high risk population. A detailed root cause analysis of these incidents must be completed and key deficiencies and improvements identified and addressed. Increased legislation will not prevent the tragedies that will continue to occur if appropriate mental health services are not addressed and available.



