(Springfield, IL) – The federal government last Tuesday awarded $22.9 million to boost community-based mental and substance use disorder treatment in 24 states, including Illinois.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in conjunction with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), announced yesterday that the money in the form of planning grants will support states, including Illinois whose Department of Human Services is to receive $982,373, to begin a long-term process that would certify community behavioral health clinics as federally qualified operations.
“The planning grants will help states strengthen payment for behavioral health services for Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries, and will help individuals with mental and substance use disorders obtain the health care they need to maintain their health and well-being” said Vikki Wachino, deputy administrator of CMS, and director, Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services.