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Behavioral Health Community-Based Organized Networks of Equitable Care and Treatment (BH-CONNECT​) Initiative


​The BH-CONNECT initiative is designed to increase access to and strengthen the continuum of community-based behavioral health services for Medi-Cal members living with significant behavioral health needs. BH-CONNECT is comprised of a new five-year Medicaid Section 1115 demonstration, State Plan Amendments (SPAs) to expand coverage of evidence-based practices (EBPs) available under Medi-Cal, and complementary guidance and policies to strengthen behavioral health services statewide.

Key Sections:

  • About BH-CONNECT: BH-CONNECT seeks to transform  California’s behavioral health delivery system by expanding access to highly effective community-based services, strengthening the behavioral health workforce, and ensuring Medi-Cal members receive high-quality care. Learn more about BH-CONNECT. 
  • Evidence-Based Practices (EBPs): BH-CONNECT expands the continuum of community-based services and EBPs available through Medi-Cal for children, youth and adults living with significant behavioral health needs. Discover the BH-CONNECT EBPs.​
  • Access, Reform and Outcomes Incentive Program: BH-CONNECT includes a $1.9 billion Incentive Program to reward behavioral health plans (BHPs) for demonstrating improvements in access to behavioral health services and outcomes among Medi-Cal members living with significant behavioral health needs. View details abou the Access, Reform and Outcomes Incentive Program.
  • Initiatives to support Children and Youth: BH-CONNECT strengthens family-based services and supports for children and youth living with significant behavioral health needs, including children and youth involved in child welfare. Learn more about the BH-CONNECT initiatives to support children and youth.​
  • Workforce Initiative: BH-CONNECT includes workforce programs to support the training, recruitment and retention of behavioral health practitioners to provide services across the continuum of care. Explore the Workforce Initiatives programs.
  • Opt-in to BH-CONNECT: BH-CONNECT includes new services and programs available at county option. Learn more about optional BH-CONNECT activities.​ 
  • BH-CONNECT Resources: DHCS has developed policy guidance and other materials to support the implementation of BH-CONNECT. Access policy guidance, federal approvals and other BH-CONNECT resources.​

Last modified date: 6/5/2025 4:48 PM