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  • Public Act 097-0381: Regional Behavioral Health Networks


    Requires the Department of Human Services (DHS) to create Regional Behavioral Health Networks in each DHS region to ensure and improve access to behavioral health services. The goal is to enable persons with mental and substance use illnesses to access clinically appropriate, evidence-based services, particularly in rural areas. The Networks will do this through collaboration among providers, developing a region-specific plan, integration of behavioral health services with primary care providers, using technology to deliver services, providing prevention as well as acute and crisis care and identifying funding strategies for uninsured patients. The legislation also created the Regional Integrated Behavioral Health Networks Steering Committee comprised of state agencies to coordinate efforts among planning regions. This group plans to meet in early 2012. The legislation takes effect January 1, 2012. To view the full language, click here.