At Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, we believe behavioral and physical health are connected. To make sure our members have access to the best behavioral care available, we have launched a new dedicated and specialized behavioral health team. They work closely with our existing case management team to assist members with behavioral health-related conditions.
The Arkansas-based team helps members connect to local providers and community resources near their homes. They offer preventive outreach, recovery support, integrated whole-person case management, a family of programs and education to promote awareness. They are your go-to experts for help finding age-appropriate behavioral health providers for specific conditions like anxiety, depression, substance use, and more severe mental illness to help children and adults alike.
The behavioral health team has three nurses, three social workers and an innovative use of peer support specialists- individuals with “lived experience” who serve as a trusted local support resource.
“Behavioral health is central to overall health, and our team is here to serve our members and change lives,” David Jacobson, vice president of Medicaid Strategy & Business Development said. “We’re just starting the journey and will expand our reach and programs. Many of us have experienced a behavioral health condition in our own lives or through someone we know. As with a physical condition, it’s important to be open and observant and get care when needed. Our team is here to help make a difference.”
The team’s services to fully insured group and individual health plan members began on February 13.