A Health Home for Individuals with Serious and Persistent Mental Illnesses and Addictions
Many of Meridian’s patients face considerable challenges addressing their complex health needs. Individuals with severe mental illnesses and substance use disorders are particularly likely to have co-morbid illnesses that are also chronic in nature. Successful management requires that both sets of problems get equal and coordinated attention if the current trend for premature death and disability for those with mental illnesses and substance use disorders is to bend. Part of the challenge is that the very nature of brain disorders makes disease self-management and accessing appropriate and timely care more difficult for the patients Meridian treats. Of patients currently engaged in treatment, only 40% indicate they have a primary care relationship. The reasons
The funding requested would support:
- Creation of a primary care clinic at two Meridian locations (including renovation needed)
- Meridian staff would: