Pennsylvania Receives $1.75 Million to Support Mental Health Services

HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 8, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Department of Public Welfare Secretary Beverly Mackereth today announced that seven Pennsylvania health centers will share $1.75 million in federal funding to establish or expand behavioral health services.

The grant award offers communities an opportunity for collaboration to support the intersection of behavioral and physical health for individuals in Pennsylvania's healthcare system.

"This funding will allow us to further Governor Corbett's Healthy Pennsylvania plan for greater access to high quality care for Pennsylvanians and will allow for expanded mental health and substance use disorder services," Mackereth said.

The health centers will use the new funds for efforts such as hiring new mental health professionals, adding mental health and substance use disorder health services and employing integrated models of primary care.

Pennsylvania is a leader in behavioral health. Through innovative approaches to comprehensive care that includes mental health and substance use services, the commonwealth continues to pursue integrated care across its service delivery system and improve health outcomes.

For more information, visit www.dpw.state.pa.us.

Media contact: Kait Gillis, DPW, 717-425-7606

Editor's Note:

Pennsylvania awardees include:

• Berks Community Health Center; Reading - $250,000
• Community Health and Dental Care, Inc.; Pottstown - $250,000
• Community Health Clinic, Inc.; New Kensington - $250,000
• Esperanza Health Center, Inc.; Philadelphia - $250,000
• La Comunidad Hispania, Inc.; Kennett Square - $250,000
• Public Health Management Corporation; Philadelphia - $250,000
• Squirrel Hill Health Center; Pittsburgh - $250,000

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare