Partnership between 3 Path Forward members, secures 5-year grant to support Collaborative Care implementation
Path Forward members, through ongoing education of policy leaders, successfully established a National Center of Excellence for Integrated Health Solutions (CIHS) to support collaborative care implementation through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The center is funded at $2.99M per year ($13.5M over the five-year grant allocation through 2029). In conjunction with the American Psychiatric Association and the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, Path Forward partner National Council for Mental Wellbeing has been awarded this grant and will administer the national CoCM technical assistance center.
These integrated models are crucial, as they are instrumental in building workforce capacity, especially for underserved and marginalized populations.
The CIHS, operated by National Council, plays a critical role in transforming healthcare by promoting the bidirectional integration of behavioral health with primary care services. This integrated care is designed to provide high-quality, evidence-informed training and national technical assistance, facilitating the implementation of integrated models in health care settings. By bridging gaps between mental and physical healthcare, integrated models contribute to reducing disparities and improving outcomes for individuals who might otherwise fall through the cracks of a fragmented care system.
An important aspect of this approach is its attention to social determinants of health (SDOH), recognizing that factors like housing, education, and economic stability greatly affect mental health outcomes. By addressing these factors, CIHS promotes a holistic, patient-centered approach that considers the full context of an individual’s life in planning their treatment and delivering care.
Over the next five years, the CIHS will rapidly expand its influence, reaching all 50 states, territories, and Tribal communities. Its national technical assistance will also support healthcare systems, providers, and non-governmental organizations. In terms of reach, the program aims to engage at least 1,000 provider organizations nationwide, support 100 state leaders, and ensure that 40,000 individuals are served annually. Through this extensive network of training and support, the CIHS is leading the way in creating a more equitable, integrated healthcare landscape that serves the mental and physical health needs of all people.