PENNSYLVANIA — The Commonwealth’s Behavioral Health Council, a first for the state, held its inaugural meeting on Tuesday. The council was established by Executive Order in October with the aim of developing a statewide action plan to address gaps in access, affordability, or delivery of services. It intends to remove silos across state agencies, healthcare providers, payers, and government sectors, and decrease the wait time for services for Pennsylvanians in need.
The council, under the leadership of Dr. Christina Finello, is tasked with setting the agenda for behavioral health under the Shapiro Administration. It comprises 33 members, including representatives from state, county, and local governments, the provider community, advocacy groups, and individuals with lived experiences. The goal is to create a more holistic healthcare delivery system in Pennsylvania.
In addition to the Council, an Advisory Committee will be established, consisting of 25 members appointed by the Governor. The committee’s role will be to bring issues from communities across the Commonwealth to the attention of the Council. The names of the Advisory Committee members will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Behavioral Health Council’s membership includes Commonwealth Representatives such as Secretary of Policy and Planning, Akbar Hossain; Secretary of the Department of Human Services, Dr. Valerie Arkoosh; Acting Secretary of the Department of Health, Dr. Debra Bogen; and Commissioner of Pennsylvania Insurance Department, Michael Humphreys, among others.
The council also includes representatives with lived or living experiences and family members, county representatives, clinical representatives, and legislative representatives from the General Assembly. Some of these members include Robert Hamilton, a formerly homeless veteran and person in long-term recovery, Kate Favata, a community engagement manager and treatment advocate, and Jennifer Wilt, a parent of a loved one with mental illness.
This initiative aims to improve mental health services and support, ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need. The work of the Council will be instrumental in identifying gaps in service and recommending solutions, ultimately leading to a more comprehensive and efficient system for behavioral health care in the state.
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