INTEGRATION IN THE FIELD: COUNTY INITIATIVES MERCED COUNTY Journey to Integration: Opportunities & Challenges

Mental Health Services Act The passing of MHSA provides an opportunity to increase funding, personnel and other resources to support county mental health programs. In its implementation responsibilities under the MHSA, DMH pledges to look beyond business as usual to help build a system where access will be easier, services are more effective, out-of-home and institutional care are reduced and stigma toward those with mental illness or serious emotional disturbance not longer exist.

Community Outreach Program Engagement and Education (COPE) The focus of COPE is to reach the unserved and racial disparate populations throughout Merced County The primary focus is the development and continual engagement of collaborative system that relies on community based organizations. COPE has further enhanced services by collaboration with agency partners, law enforcement, and other departments.

COPE COPE clinicians partner with primary health clinics:  Livingston Medical Group—Hilmar Medical Group  Dos Palos Rural Health Center

Family Care Master Agreement with Mercy Medical Center SAMHSA Substance Abuse Counselor

Livingston—Hilmar Medical Group MOU—formalize structure Blue Shield Grant—California Inst. for Mental Health Total Integration

Integration with other FQHCs Castle Family Health Centers Golden Valley Health Centers