It’s a really complicated world……all of us want to decrease the federal debt, but how can we when so much is needed? Increased spending on the borders and illegal immigration control is at the top of the “Rights” list, while taking care of our poor and disabled stay at the top of the “lefts” list. In my world it’s a no-brainer. Supporting people that are some of societies most vulnerable is the right thing to do and I am glad HR 1586 was signed into law yesterday.

The law included a six month extension of higher Medicaid federal matching funds for states – a major contribution towards some of the drastic slashes in mental health coverage in Arizona.

Recent budget slashes (I prefer that term over cuts as I feel it’s much more descriptive) in the state’s healthcare system for the poor have forced many people to search for alternatives to afford their medications. Some are going to Canada, while some have been fortunate to be able to get discounts directly from the pharmaceutical companies. I applaud the efforts of some of the drug companies to help and I wish they would all step up.

While illegal immigration and calls to enforce the border by sending in troops occupies the headlines, our state’s most vulnerable citizens are doing the best they can just to survive.  In my world they take priority over someone who has illegally crossed our borders to look for a better way of life.  Helping disabled and seriously mentally ill people is not only money well spent, it’s the “right” thing to do!

How Did Your Member Vote?

View the House roll call vote on final passage of HR 1586

Both McCain and Kyle voted no when the bill went through the senate.

Read further details on the provisions in HR 1586 designed to support state Medicaid programs into 2011.

Benefits Transition Meeting
Date: Wednesday, June 9th, 2010
Time: 6:00 – 7:30p.m.
Location: CPSA’s Plaza Arboleda Training Center
2502 N Dodge Blvd (at Dodge & Flower)
Tucson, AZ
(Meal will be provided)
Funding cuts to the behavioral health care system in the Arizona state budget will result in a significant reduction in benefits to Non-Title XIX persons determined to have a Serious Mental Illness (SMI). The changes to the benefits will go into effect on July 1, 2010.  Medication benefits as well as therapeutic counseling coverage can be effected, so it’s important to learn how this will impact you if you are in the public mental health system, but don’t qualify for AHCCCS.

NAMI Southern Arizona and Community Partnership of Southern Arizona (CPSA) are co-hosting this meeting to help answer your questions about the recent changes to CPSA’s system of care.

If you are not currently on AHCCCS (Medicaid, Title XIX), staff experienced in determining AHCCCS eligibility will be at the meeting.
A Community Resource List will also be distributed with contact information for a variety of services offered throughout Pima County.
Space is limited. RSVP Required by Monday, June 7th
Call 784-5378
(Spanish translation is available upon request)

Beginning July 1, 2010, deep budget cuts at the state level will affect publicly funded behavioral health services. Over 300,000 adults and over 7000 children  statewide could loose their coverage.  (things are complicated with the new federal health care legislation)  Because timely information sharing is critical, Arizona’s Department of Behavioral Health Services (DBHS) has set up a CLICK HERE: Web site to communicate with members, families and stakeholders – both to provide information and to obtain your input.

DBHS will post the latest information as it becomes available on topics including:

• Changes to covered benefits for adults with serious mental illness (SMI) who do not qualify for Medicaid (also called AHCCCS or Title XIX).
• Efforts to ensure there is a comprehensive and effective statewide crisis system for anyone experiencing a behavioral health crisis.
• Clarification of benefits related to supported housing for adults with serious mental illness (SMI).

Submit your CLICK HERE: questions and concerns to DBHS.   CLICK HERE: FAQs are updated each Tuesday by DBHS.