U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes introduces bill to extend behavioral health workforce program
WASHINGTON, D. C. - U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes has introduced legislation that would continue a program that provides tens of millions of dollars each year to increase the supply of behavioral health professionals.
The Akron Democrat’s legislation would extend Congress’ authorization for the Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) Program, which awards recruiting and training grants to eligible universities and training programs.
It was created by the Affordable Care Act in 2010 and was reauthorized in 2018 as part of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act. The Mental Health Improvement Act would extend the funding authorization for the program until 2030.
Sykes said that Walsh University in North Canton has received a total of $1,909,287 since 2021 for the Walsh University Counselors and Occupational Therapists Professionally Engaged in the Community program. According to Sykes, Walsh University to date has sent 122 students in the field to help provide behavioral health services.
Demand for behavioral health services rose 353% in Ohio from 2013 to 2019, according to data from the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. In 2021, providers reported a 70% rise in need for adult and youth mental health services and a 60% increase in need for addiction services.
“Without this funding, the Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training Program will not be able to continue to provide critical funds to ensure that our communities have a robust mental and behavioral health workforce to support people struggling with addiction and save lives,” said a statement from Sykes. “I’ll keep working to ensure all Americans, no matter where they live, have access to affordable, high-quality mental health services.”
She introduced the bill with Pennsylvania GOP Rep. John Joyce, a physician who said patients suffer when the growing workforce shortage limits their access to care.
“By reintroducing legislation to extend the Behavioral Health Workforce Education Training Program, we can secure the future of our behavioral health workforce so that American patients, especially young adults, can access the mental health care they need,” said a statement from Joyce.
By: Sabrina Eaton
Source: Cleveland.com