Overview:
BH-CONNECT expands Medi-Cal service coverage, drives performance improvement, and supports fidelity implementation for evidence-based practice models to improve outcomes for Medi-Cal members experiencing the greatest inequities. As a result, members can avoid unnecessary emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and inpatient or residential facility stays, reduce involvement with the justice system, and feel healthier.
Objectives:
- Reduce reliance on facility-based care and strengthen community support.
- Bridging gaps to build a robust continuum of care for members living with significant behavioral health needs.
Eligibility and Populations of Focus
Overview:
- BH-CONNECT Populations of focus include:
- Children and youth involved in child welfare
- Individuals and families who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness
- Justice-involved individuals
- To expand the continuum of care, DHCS will add new evidence-based practices as a county option through the Medi-Cal specialty behavioral health delivery systems. To be eligible for these services, members must meet the access criteria for one or more of the following:
- Specialty Mental Health Services (BHIN 21-073)
- Drug Medi-Cal (DMC) Treatment Program Services (BHIN 21-071) and/or
- Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System Services (DMC-ODS) (BHIN 24-001)
- DHCS will issue forthcoming guidance with additional eligibility criteria for the BH-CONNECT evidence-based practices and community-based services.
- Services vary by county. Please contact your county mental health plan to see if you qualify.
