Friday, September 29, 2017

State gets $10 million grant to integrate primary and behavioral health care, in yet another initiative to combat substance abuse

The Cabinet for Health and Family Services has been awarded a $10 million federal grant to integrate primary care and behavioral health care in two regions of the state, as part of an effort to combat the state's opioid epidemic.

Kentucky is one of three states chosen by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to receive the five-year grant, which will be provided to two community health centers -- Centerstone in Louisville and Mountain Comprehensive Care Center in Eastern Kentucky.

The project will integrate primary care and behavioral health, focusing on individuals with physical health conditions who are at risk of developing chronic health conditions, including those with substance use disorders, says the news release.

 “The project presents a unique opportunity to improve health outcomes for Kentuckians with behavioral health and chronic health issues,” said Dr. Allen Brenzel, medical director for the Department of Behavioral Health, Development and Intellectual Disabilities. “Centerstone of Kentucky and Mountain Comprehensive Care Center are ideal partners because of their track record of collaborative community relationships and commitment to integrated treatment services.”

The project will begin next month with the formation of local implementation teams and advisory councils.

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