Project Summary:
Wisconsin is home to some of the worst health disparities in the nation, experienced especially by rural residents, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ communities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities that have mental health needs. The state’s mental health system is challenging to navigate, and without sufficient support of early interventions and prevention, there is often an overuse of emergency services, preventable disabilities and deaths, as well as justice system involvement.
This project will foster the creation of county and multi-county coalitions to improve access to coordinated, person-centered, culturally informed, high-quality, and affordable mental care. Building on the impact of AHW’s Advancing Behavioral Health Initiative, this project will identify mental health service gaps and collaborate to create solutions.
Their work will include implementing an environmental scan to engage stakeholders in at least 45 counties; develop and deliver online educational sessions to support effective coalition implementation and system improvement; develop a statewide coalition of key stakeholders and representatives of local and regional mental health coalitions; and identify rapid reforms that can be replicated without substantial changes in funding, policy, or system structures.
Community Partners: Wisconsin Collaborative for Healthcare Quality (WCHQ), Wisconsin Association of Family and Children’s Agencies (WAFCA)