The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services has provided more services to more Oklahomans, while reducing costs and creating better outcomes.
In a largely rural state, where mental health providers can be few and far between, offering services using new technology has helped provide better access to all communities.
“People need options, no matter where they live,” said ODMHSAS Commissioner Carrie Slatton-Hodges. “Today, Oklahomans can receive mental health or substance abuse services in person, via telehealth or even by telephone.”
Thousands of iPads were distributed to state-operated or contracted Certified Community Behavioral Health Centers (CCBHC), law enforcement for assistance during mental health-related calls, and more than 80 city/county health departments to help rural residents immediately access behavioral healthcare.
