The Guide is intended to be an easy to use reference tool for families in need of mental health services, pediatricians, other primary care providers, emergency physicians, schools, public agencies, and human and social service agencies and providers. The Guide includes:
- How to access child mental health screening and assessment services;
- A description of available child mental health services and programs by funding source (public and private);
- Contact information for categories of programs and services;
- Eligibility information for public programs and services.
Early intervention is key,'' said James Mandell, MD, President and Chief Executive Officer of Children's Hospital Boston. ''Every day we see children in our emergency room who have not been able to access the mental health services they need. Our goal is to help parents avoid reaching that crisis point, and to help children have better outcomes. By improving parental knowledge of how the mental health system works and how to advocate within it, we can collectively make a real difference in children's health and well-being.'' The BBA Children's Mental Health Task Force began in the spring of 2001 - at the suggestion of the BBA Health Law Section's Social Action Committee - and is co-chaired by Michael Blau, Michele Garvin and Joshua Greenberg. The Task Force consists of some 60 members, representing every perspective relevant to the subject of children's mental health. Among its members are leaders of state agencies, individuals representing the courts, academia, and the Legislature, as well as health care providers, payors, and advocates for children. A downloadable copy of the Guide will be available at www.bostonbar.org.
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