On the recordMarch 31, 2014
I thank the Senator for her work on behalf of her constituents in Michigan and all people struggling with mental illness. She is a strong advocate and I am very pleased we were able to work together on this important issue. As she mentioned, this demonstration program will allow communities to improve the amount and quality of mental health services available to those suffering from mental illness. As Senator Stabenow and I have constructed this program, it is our strong and clear intent to ensure this demonstration project is driven by the community. Our local community mental centers are the best source for learning what the needs are in communities across our States and the country. It is critical States work not only with these centers, but with groups that advocate on behalf of those struggling with mental illness, and the patients themselves--and their families-- who can explain the difference that access to quality mental health services makes in the lives of people struggling with mental disease. For example, in Missouri, many current community mental health centers have partnered with community health centers in their area. This has worked well for Missouri providers and allows patients an excellent opportunity to receive coordinated care. If these pilot projects prove successful, which I believe they will, it is my hope we would see these programs continue and expand to other States, so other patients can benefit from higher quality services in their communities.…
