Thursday, November 21, 2024
11/21/2024
Abstract Cowlitz Indian Tribe has been providing Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) services as part of its Behavioral Health offerings since 2016 for those affected by opioid use and other substance use disorders. Growing demand for this life-saving intervention and increased barriers experienced by those affected by substance use prompted analysis of alternative means by which to provide these critical services. At the end of 2023, the Cowlitz Indian Tribe acquired a mobile unit built specifically for MAT service provision with funding support from Accountable Communities of Health initiatives. The goals of this project include increasing access to care and the number of individuals receiving MAT services, meeting behavioral health needs in community-based settings, and engaging those affected by substance use in holistic health services with a priority to improve health outcomes for Indigenous community members. Objectives outlined to achieve these goals include filling positions identified for effective operation of the mobile unit, developing a consistent calendar of locations that are easily accessible to those with the greatest need, and piloting this innovative service model in hopes that within one year’s time, it becomes a self-sustaining and effective tool in battling the opioid epidemic. With the unit on-site and ready to serve, the Cowlitz Indian Tribe is requesting $700,000 in funding for adequate staffing, equipment, and supplies needed to ensure the unit can operate in its first year as intended.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).
