Governor Blunt Announces Missouri's Blueprint for Mental Health Transformation

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

July 02, 2008

Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290


JEFFERSON CITY- Gov. Matt Blunt announced today that Missouris Comprehensive Plan for Mental Health (CPMH) has received approval from the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). According to the official review, "Unquestionably, the State of Missouri is to be commended for its Comprehensive Plan for Mental Health and for its impressiveblueprint for transformation for the states overall mental health system."

"Once again, Missouris innovation and collaboration is leading the nation," Gov. Blunt said. "I congratulate everyone who contributed to the plan development. Your work and continued partnership is setting high standards in Missouri and around the country."

"This is a visionary initiative involving consumer and family members, the Department of Mental Health , and the six state agencies that provide mental health services as well as public- and private-sector experts," said Keith Schafer, Department of Mental Health director. "Missourians of all ages, and especially those with co-occurring disorders, can expect a more proactive, public health approach to their mental health services and systems."

In fall 2006, Missouri became the eighth of nine states to receive SAMHSAs competitive funding to transform the mental health system. Immediately upon notification, Gov. Blunt launched Missouris Mental Health Transformation Initiative based upon the findings of the Presidents New Freedom Commission.

Gov. Blunt first appointed a 24-member leadership team, known as the Transformation Working Group (TWG), to lead the project. The TWG created an initial work plan then identified and convened more than 240 experts from throughout the state. These Missourians volunteered their time on workgroups to explore, debate, and develop recommendations for an improved mental health system. The groups detailed report was presented to the TWG in July 2007; the TWG synthesized the information into priority recommendations. In fall 2007, 14 public meetings were held statewide to obtain additional input. The resulting feedback led to the creation of Missouris Comprehensive Plan for Mental Health (CPMH), which was submitted for federal review on March 28, 2008.

Prior to approving the plan, SAMHSA representatives conducted a program site visit in May 2008. In their site visit report, they highlighted Missouris many strengths including the "strong and committed leadership" at all levels, "innovative programs," and "a model of state/local collaboration." In addition, Missouri is the only state to expand its Transformation focus to include citizens with substance use or addictive disorders and those with mental retardation/developmental disabilities.

"This is an exciting time," said Diane McFarland, TWG chair. "We are strengthening Missouris mental health infrastructure through local and regional collaboratives, ensuring a consumer and family focus, addressing stigma, and empowering people to move forward in their recovery regardless of their illness or disability."

Visit the Transformation Website at http://www.dmh.mo.gov/transformation/transformation.htm to read the full plan, to read SAMHSAs review and site visit report, and to keep informed on the progress.