DES MOINES, Iowa (KCCI) – Iowa is launching a new system to make mental health and substance use care more accessible, KCCI reports.
A law aimed at restructuring the state’s mental health, substance use, and disability services was passed last year.
The new system is being implemented Tuesday, and moves the state from 32 separate mental health and disability regions to seven bigger behavioral health districts.
“The goal of this system is that regardless of where you live at, you get the same level of care,” said the director of the state’s Aging and Disability Services Division, Zach Rhein.
Officials report that Iowans receiving services should not see a difference in care.
However, providers will notice less paperwork and simplified operations due to the new system.
Iowa’s Behavioral Health Division Director Marissa Eyanson said the new model will provide consistency statewide.
The new system includes the implementation of behavioral health system navigators. A free, 24/7 phone and online service titled Your Life Iowa allows Iowans to connect with navigators, who assist in finding resources for “mental illness, substance use, problem gambling or tobacco and nicotine dependence,” according to KCCI.
Prevention and early intervention are also major focuses of the new system.
According to officials, the changes only apply to state-funded services, and will not impact Medicaid or Medicaid waivers.
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