Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro met with the Commonwealth’s Behavioral Health Council and Advisory Committee to unveil a new statewide action plan for behavioral health.
The Governor created the Council when he signed Executive Order 2023-20, which directed the Council to develop a plan for state leaders, local governments, and community providers to deliver improved, faster and higher quality behavioral health care services for all Pennsylvanians.
The Council delivered on the Governor’s directive by examining the current state of Pennsylvania’s behavioral health care system, finding points for improvement, and offering 41 recommendations to improve access to care and strengthen support for Pennsylvanians seeking mental health and addiction care services.
The statewide action plan outlines six goals:
- Develop an Integrated Care System
- Expand Access to Services
- Strengthen the Workforce and Provider Support
- Enhance Accountability and Transparency
- Advance Equity in Behavioral Health
- Improve Criminal Justice and Behavioral Health Integration