Nine Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in NH were recently awarded funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources Services Administration to expand access to substance use disorder and mental health services in response to the national opioid crisis. The $1.5 million in funding will expand access to integrated mental health and substance use disorder services by increasing personnel and enhancing infrastructure.
"Health centers and behavioral health providers are on the front lines of the fight against the opioid crisis and substance abuse, especially in rural communities,” says HHS Secretary Alex Azar. “With our evidence-based strategy, HHS is working to support local communities in fighting back against substance abuse, and our united efforts are yielding results. Together, we can end our country’s opioid crisis and lay a foundation for a healthier country where every American can access the mental healthcare they need.”
“We appreciate the federal government’s recognition of the critical role Community Health Centers play in addressing the opioid crisis in New Hampshire and nationwide. The grant awards will support the expansion of substance use disorder treatment programs, including medication-assisted treatment, a combination of medication and behavioral therapies effective in the treatment of substance use disorders,” says Georgia Maheras, VP, policy and strategy, of Bi-State Primary Care Association. “The health centers are committed to increasing the number of patients served.”
The NH FQHCs receiving new Integrated Behavioral Health Services funding include: Ammonoosuc Community Health Services, Littleton; Amoskeag Health, Manchester; Coos County Family Health Services, Berlin; Goodwin Community Health, Somersworth; Harbor Care Health & Wellness Center, Nashua; Health Care for the Homeless Program, Manchester; HealthFirst Family Care Center, Franklin; Lamprey Health Care, Newmarket; and Mid-State Health Center, Plymouth.
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