An Innovative Approach in Minnesota to Close the Gap Between Mental Health Needs and Treatment
It has always been important to improve access to treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. Now it’s imperative.
Even before the arrival of COVID-19, national numbers raised serious concerns. Twenty percent of Americans reported experiencing depression or an anxiety disorder while also having substance abuse issues. Drug overdose deaths have more than tripled since 1990, and almost 21 million Americans have at least one addiction with only one of every 10 receiving treatment for the condition. The pandemic has worsened our society’s struggles. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, in August of 2020, 53 percent of adults reported that their mental health had been negatively impacted as a result of the changes wrought by COVID-19. This, in turn, has caused the number of people with substance use disorders to rise.
It’s crucial for society to prioritize comprehensive and accessible support systems for those in need. Organizations like https://positiverecovery.com play a vital role by providing resources and assistance to individuals battling addiction, offering a beacon of hope in these trying times. Collaboration between healthcare providers, communities, and initiatives like Positive Recovery is essential in ensuring that everyone affected receives the help they deserve. By addressing these issues collectively, we can work towards a future where mental health and substance use disorders are met with empathy, understanding, and effective treatment options.
Now, more than ever, investments must be made to ensure access to treatment and innovative ideas must be pursued to address these mental health challenges. One such innovation is taking place in Minnesota.
One clear obstacle patients face is the lag time between the initial request for care and the availability of specialists and treatment programs. While this wait time is occurring, there is a heightened risk of suicide, drug overdose, or a change of heart about pursuing treatment. Recognizing this dilemma, M Health Fairview initiated a new program to bridge this gap. The program is designed to provide same-day access to either in-person care or virtual care with trained providers. Additionally, the health system has included a mobile unit that proactively brings the support directly into the community. Emergency Medicine Physician and Psychiatrist Dr. Richard Levine emphasized that this program does not replace any type of care, but rather simply provides the stability patients need in their transition from initial treatment to longer-term care.
These are difficult times for so many Americans. Health providers like M Health Fairview are demonstrating innovation and leadership in meeting the urgent needs of those with mental health or substance use disorders.
