May is Mental Health Awareness Month which, since 1949, has been a driving force in addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. In this edition of our Foundation Friday series, we’re spotlighting our client, the Bowman Family Foundation (BFF), as they continue to champion efforts to improve access to effective mental health and substance use care by encouraging local implementation of the Collaborative Care Model (CoCM). Recently, they released Large Reductions in Suicide Risk, Attempts and Deaths which was the subject of a webinar hosted by the foundation and Shatterproof. Watch the replay.
The Issue Brief: Summarizing Results From 3 Key Studies
Two of these studies – both conducted in “real world” primary care settings – showed reductions in suicide risk for over 50% of “at risk” patients receiving CoCM services. BFF funded these studies.
The third study – conducted by Kaiser Permanente, which is currently implementing CoCM in all of its markets – found a 25% reduction in suicide attempts and deaths among more than 225,000 patients in day-to-day care who were treated using key elements of CoCM.
The results of these studies are striking, but so is the fact that, now, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, The Jed Foundation and Shatterproof have made statements urging implementation of this specific method of rigorous screening and integrated care, which are highlighted in the Press Release:
“These studies confirm the value of the Collaborative Care Model for saving lives and helping people at risk for suicide…It’s time to embrace this model of care…” – American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
“These compelling studies on the Collaborative Care Model validate…that integrated, accessible mental health care saves lives. By implementing the CoCM in primary care and family practices, we create more opportunities to identify and support those at risk, especially young people who might not otherwise seek specialized help.” – The Jed Foundation
“We must do everything in our power to accelerate implementation of this model in primary care – the most ubiquitous existing care setting to help save lives.” – Shatterproof
We’d like to thank the BFF for sharing their story with us! And if you missed our interview with them, check out their full story.
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