A pivotal step forward in addressing mental health needs within the Mid-Michigan region has been taken as LifeWays, a prominent mental health care center catering to Jackson and Hillsdale counties, strives to elevate the availability of top-tier services and addiction treatment. This significant development comes as the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services made a noteworthy announcement on Friday, designating LifeWays as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) demonstration site.
CEO Maribeth Leonard shared, “Our commitment is to serve the entire community, irrespective of financial means, residency, or insurance status. We’re here to support everyone.” This achievement underscores LifeWays’ dedication to offering comprehensive care for all, backed by the assurance of quality.
Elaborating on this achievement, Chelsea Oliver, a spokesperson for the institution, articulated that “the CCBHC designation enables coverage of services for individuals using Medicaid, while the mental health millages endorsed by Jackson and Hillsdale counties continue to cater to uninsured individuals.” Oliver further emphasized that this certification significantly expands the reach of services to include those relying on Medicaid.
In an official press release communicated to News 10, representatives from the mental health organization affirmed, “Being selected as a CCBHC Demonstration Site empowers LifeWays to not only sustain its commitment to delivering integrated and person-centric services to individuals and families in need, but to do so with an all-encompassing approach that disregards location, financial capacity, or insurance category. Presently, LifeWays can function in this manner by utilizing CCBHC grant funding provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA).”
Local residents such as David Burkeypille recognize the transformative potential of this development. He expressed, “I’ve had several friends who have sought assistance from LifeWays. The availability of a 24-hour space where you can seek help when needed is invaluable.”
Offering an inside glimpse into this specialized facility, LifeWays director Joshua Williams revealed the purpose behind the designated room, explaining it as “a refuge for individuals to find solace, offering an alternative to the emergency department for those seeking support or waiting for treatment options.” Williams highlighted that the space serves as a place where individuals can unwind, access basic amenities like showers and meals, and subsequently transition towards their treatment journey.
Leonard attested, “Over the past year, and particularly the last two years in light of the pandemic, we’ve observed an increased demand for personalized services, including immediate screenings and round-the-clock crisis support.”
Addressing potential stigma associated with seeking help, Burkeypille urged, “It’s important to remember that having challenges doesn’t imply you’re ‘crazy’. Many individuals grapple with challenges; it’s a normal aspect of life. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance.”
These certified community behavioral health clinic demonstration sites are generating positive impacts across the nation. Data from the Department of Health and Human Services underscores the efficacy of services provided by these clinics:
– A reduction of 69% in emergency department visits.
– A decrease of 60.3% in time spent in correctional facilities.
– A substantial 40.7% decline in homelessness.
As LifeWays embraces its role as a beacon of comprehensive care and support, communities are poised to reap the benefits of this concerted effort to advance mental health services for all.
