Human Services Committee Talks Behavior Health & Social Services

The Human Services Committee has gathered to work through a full two-day agenda. The start of their work included the first ever review on the next phase of the state's behavior health system. Human Services Research Institute (HSRI) has been contracted for this task. They presented some of their findings and identified potential first steps in implementing their recommendations.

During the presentation, HSRI identified that in North Dakota in 2017 $59 million of state and federal dollars was spent on mental health treatment. About $19 million was spent on substance use treatment. HSRI has found that most of the dollars in both these areas are spent on the most expensive services. They recommend the state continue exploring ways to improve behavior health services provided to individuals who have been involved in the justice system.

In addition, the committee received an update on the "Social Service Redesign" project from DHS Director Chris Jones. He emphasized that the project is really focused on redesigning a system to focus on the client by improving the system in an more efficient and effective manner so that the client receives better service. He told the committee roles may change and the roles may not look the same everywhere. Chairwoman Representative Kathy Hogan called this a comprehensive revamp of the whole system at the state and county level.

"This is one of the largest structural changes we have looked at in a long-time," said Hogan.

"This started out as a financial move, but I am excited to see how it has blossomed into a total system review," said Senator Judy Lee.

NDACo Interim Director, Terry Traynor was asked how the counties are responding to the Social Services Redesign project. Traynor told the committee that since the beginning of 2018, 19 committees have met for day-long meetings that involve 60 individuals from both county social services and DHS.

"From my perception, the counties are excited that the redesign project is focusing on how services can be delivered to the client better," said Traynor. "There may have been anxiety of our county folks going into this project, but through this process the anxiety has lessened and enthusiasm has grown, this is definitely not just a funding question anymore."