DHHS NEWS RELEASE
CARSON CITY – The Comprehensive Gaps Analysis of Behavioral Health Report, referenced by Governor Sandoval in a recent press announcement, was released yesterday following a lengthy research and analysis process which began in May 2013. Earlier this year, the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services directed the Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH) to conduct a statewide analysis of public and private mental health services to better understand the current landscape of mental health services in Nevada and to identify gaps.
DPBH contracted with Social Entrepreneurs, Inc. Kelly Marschall and Lisa Watston to conduct research and report back to DHHS with their findings and recommendations. The intent of the report is to forward the efforts of the state as it implements an integrated public and behavioral health system of care.
The report recommends implementing a community-based behavioral health system with a “no wrong door” to access care. The research identifies the need to plan and secure resources for the system, while focusing on workforce, development of a comprehensive provider network, securing supportive service resources and addressing quality.
“Behavioral health requires a system of care. It will take coordination and effort from a variety of agencies and clinical disciplines to develop solutions to improve,” says Richard Whitley, DPBH Administrator. “The gaps analysis report can be used by the Governor’s Behavioral Health and Wellness Council.”
