Community Health Programs has received a $285,000 federal grant for expanded treatment of behavioral health disorders that can place patients at risk of substance abuse.
The grant from the federal Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is part of a $396 million federal allocation. Of this, $12 million will be shared by 38 Massachusetts-based community health centers.
CHP will strengthen its integrated behavioral health strategy by adding two full-time licensed clinical social workers to its primary care practices at CHP Lee Family Practice and CHP Great Barrington Health Center.
“This award helps us to double-down on the underlying mental health issues that can lead to substance use,” said Lia Spiliotes, CEO of Community Health Programs. “Now, CHP patients who might be at risk with mental health issues can more quickly connect with a mental health professional who is based right inside one of our primary care practice locations.”
HRSA is a key funding agency for Community Health Programs a federally qualified health center.
Community Health Programs, based in Great Barrington, Mass., is federally qualified health care network serving more than 30,000 Berkshire County region residents with primary health care for adults and children, women’s health care, dental care, physical therapy, vision care and nutrition services. CHP Family Services reaches parents and children in Southern Berkshire County with parent-child networking, parenting education, WIC services and nutrition classes. CHP accepts all patients, regardless of ability to pay, and accepts all forms of public and private health insurance.