California counties are undergoing a significant shift in how they deliver behavioral health services, driven by the state’s Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA). The overarching aim is to improve access to care, enhance accountability and expand the capacity of behavioral health facilities across the state, according to information released by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS).
The Core of the Behavioral Health Services Act
The BHSA, established to transform county-administered behavioral health services, focuses on a comprehensive approach to mental health and substance use disorder treatment. A key component of this transformation involves the development of county Behavioral Health Plans (BHPs). These plans are now required to address six priority statewide behavioral health goals, with counties also selecting at least one additional goal to focus on, as outlined in a guidebook published by the California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA) in .
Priority Goals for Improvement
The six priority goals identified by the DHCS represent areas deemed critical for improvement across California. These include enhancing access to care, a central tenet of the BHSA. While the specific strategies for achieving these goals will vary by county, the overarching objective remains consistent: to ensure that individuals in need of behavioral health services can readily access appropriate and timely care.
Beyond access, the BHSA emphasizes increased accountability and transparency in the use of public funds allocated to behavioral health services. This focus on accountability aims to ensure that resources are utilized effectively and efficiently, maximizing their impact on the communities served. The expansion of behavioral health care facilities is another key priority, addressing the need for increased capacity to meet the growing demand for services.
Integrated Planning and County Implementation
The implementation of the BHSA requires a coordinated and integrated planning process. Counties are utilizing an Integrated Plan Template, released by the DHCS on , to guide their planning efforts. This template provides a framework for aligning county-level strategies with the statewide goals outlined in the BHSA.
The planning process isn’t simply about setting goals; it’s about meaningful engagement with the community. A guide published by CalMHSA highlights the importance of involving stakeholders – individuals with lived experience, family members, providers, and community organizations – in the development and implementation of these plans. This collaborative approach ensures that the plans are responsive to the unique needs and priorities of each county.
Quality Enhancement and Accountability Cohorts
To support counties in this process, the DHCS has established Quality Enhancement and Accountability Cohorts (QEAC). A meeting held on , outlined that each county BHP is required to complete planning on all six priority goals and one additional goal. This structured approach, with defined goals and measures, is intended to drive continuous improvement in the quality and effectiveness of behavioral health services.
Looking Ahead: The Lehigh Valley Model
While the focus here is on California, similar initiatives are underway across the country. For example, Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) recently released its 2025-2028 Community Health Implementation Plan, demonstrating a broader national trend toward proactive, community-focused health strategies. This plan, released in , underscores the importance of integrated health planning at the local level.
What Which means for Patients and Communities
The changes driven by the BHSA have the potential to significantly impact individuals seeking behavioral health services in California. Increased access to care means shorter wait times, more available appointments, and a wider range of treatment options. Enhanced accountability ensures that public funds are used responsibly, leading to more effective programs and better outcomes. And expanded capacity means that more individuals will be able to receive the care they need, when they need it.
However, the success of the BHSA will depend on effective implementation at the county level. Meaningful community engagement, careful planning, and a commitment to continuous quality improvement will be essential to realizing the full benefits of this transformative initiative. The focus on six priority goals, coupled with the flexibility to address an additional area of need, allows counties to tailor their plans to the specific challenges and opportunities within their communities.
The emphasis on accountability and transparency is also crucial. By making the use of public funds more visible and measurable, the BHSA aims to build trust and ensure that resources are directed to the programs and services that have the greatest impact. This is a significant step toward creating a more equitable and effective behavioral health system for all Californians.
