Regional events are an opportunity to learn more about our RCORP program. Register for your region to hear more about substance use disorder, mental health, and Rural Health Association program updates. Lunch will be provided to in-person attendees.
Cost: Free for members | $25 for non-members; a networking lunch will be included.
The Rural Health Association is offering funding for paraprofessional trainings benefiting mental and behavioral health for HRSA defined rural organizations. If your business is interested in training someone in your community or a staff member, please reach out to our RCORP director Jessica Rackley at [email protected]. Below you can find a list of trainings eligible for funding:
Substance Use Disorder Treatment Training: Training for healthcare providers on evidence-based practices for treating substance use disorders (SUDs), including opioid addiction. This can include medication-assisted treatment (MAT) training, counseling, and support services.
Mental Health First Aid Instructor training: Courses that teach individuals how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders in their community.
Cultural Competency Training: Training for healthcare providers on how to effectively address and treat the unique needs of diverse rural populations, including understanding cultural differences, stigma, and barriers to accessing care.
Integrated Care Models Training: Training on models that integrate primary care with mental health and substance use disorder services, aiming to provide a holistic approach to patient care.
Stipends for Peer Support Specialist Certification: Training for individuals with lived experience of SUDs to become certified peer support specialists, offering guidance and support to others undergoing treatment and recovery.
Prevention Strategies Training: Training on implementing community-based strategies to prevent substance misuse and addiction, including education on the risks of opioid use and strategies to reduce prescription drug misuse.
Stigma Reduction Training: Programs aimed at reducing the stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders, encouraging individuals to seek help and support.
Leadership and Program Development Training: training on program development, management, and sustainability.
Our 2024 Spring Regional events are in swing! Tuesday, March 19th, we had the opportunity to host our regional event at East Tennessee University and see our east region members. Members had the opportunity to hear from professionals on topics including substance use and behavioral disorders in rural communities, current drug trends, and more.
The presentation can be found below:
The Behavioral Health Safety Net System in Tennessee, known as BHSN of TN, is a crucial resource for adults aged 18 and older who lack insurance coverage but meet the necessary eligibility criteria. This program offers essential community-based behavioral health services, with the exception of inpatient care, which is not covered. BHSN of TN is effectively administered through contracts with Community Mental Health Agencies statewide.
For individuals seeking to access this safety net assistance, the process involves locating a provider in their area and scheduling an intake appointment. During the appointment, applicants should express their intention to apply for the safety net program. If deemed eligible based on the eligibility requirements outlined below, the agency will provide support in completing the enrollment form. Approved participants must receive Behavioral Health Safety Net services exclusively at the Community Mental Health Agency where they initiated the application process.
