New Jersey is moving toward a new model of health care that would allow more patients to receive mental health and physical health services in the same place, rather than navigating separate systems.
The change is aimed especially at lower-income residents and people who rely on Medicaid, many of whom face barriers when trying to coordinate behavioral health treatment with regular medical care.
The state has awarded contracts to nonprofit organizations that will help develop and implement the integrated-care model.
Under the new approach, patients could receive services such as primary care, mental health treatment, substance-use care and referrals through a more coordinated system.
Supporters of the model say integrating care could make it easier for patients to receive treatment earlier and reduce the chances that mental or physical health problems go untreated because services are fragmented.
The move follows regulatory changes in New Jersey that make it easier for health providers to offer behavioral and physical health services under one roof.
State officials say the goal is to create a more accessible and patient-centered system, particularly for people with complex health needs.
The effort is part of a broader push in New Jersey to improve access to mental health services while reducing administrative and logistical barriers for patients.
Implementation details will vary by provider and region, but the state’s latest actions mark a significant step toward making integrated health care more widely available.
Source: New Jersey Monitor
By NJ RADAR Team