Community Meetings and Survey Offer Vermonters Opportunities to Provide Feedback
Vermont Business Magazine The Department of Mental Health (DMH) is seeking community input as they explore the potential of implementing the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) model in Vermont. DMH is providing three avenues for community input: a virtual community meeting, two in-person community engagement meetings, and an anonymous online survey.
CCBHCs deliver holistic care across the lifespan for individuals and their families and aim to simplify healthcare access by having one organization coordinate all services and with to aim of eliminating the need for individuals to navigate multiple appointments at different locations.
CCBHC's required services include: 24/7 Crisis Care, primary healthcare screening and monitoring, community-based mental healthcare services for veterans and their families, peer and family support services, and outpatient mental health and substance use disorder treatment including screening and assessments, treatment planning, and case management.
To learn more about the CCBHC model, please visit the DMH website.
The community meetings aim to provide community members with an opportunity to briefly learn about the CCBHC model, share initial thoughts and perspectives, and discuss its potential benefits for Vermonters.
The meetings will also serve as a space for participants to openly share insights and personal experiences with the current system of care. The short online survey is an alternative to the more discussion-focused approach of the community meetings but still allows community members to contribute valuable input.
"We believe that involving our community in these discussions is an invaluable part of ensuring that our system of care is meeting the diverse needs of all Vermonters," highlighted DMH Commissioner Emily Hawes. "We want folks to know their voices hold significant value, and we eagerly look forward to exploring the CCBHC model together with our community."
*Meeting Details*
Click here to access the online survey
Meeting #1
Location: Waterbury Public Library – 28 N Main St Ste 2, Waterbury, VT 05676
Date and time: Tuesday, January 9th, 6:00-7:30pm
Meeting #2
Location: Rutland Free Library - 10 Court St, Rutland, VT 05701
Date and time: Wednesday, January 17th, 6:00-7:30pm
Meeting #3
Location: Virtual
Date and time: Wednesday, January 24th, 6:00-7:30pm
To participate in discussions and offer feedback regarding mental health services in Vermont, individuals are encouraged to attend community meetings or contribute through the online survey. In-person community meetings will feature complimentary food and beverages and all meeting attendees are eligible to receive a stipend for their participation. DMH emphasizes the importance of diverse representation, specifically encouraging individuals with lived experiences to share their perspectives.
About the Department of Mental Health
Vermont Department of Mental Health (DMH) has a critical mission to improve the conditions and well-being of all Vermonters across the state and protect those who cannot protect themselves.
Source: Waterbury, VT – mentalhealth.vermont.gov
