Dr. Medlock’s Vision for the BHA as Laid Out in the Strategic Plan
Based on the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA)’s strategic plan released January 2023 under the leadership of Dr. Medlock, the BHA’s vision can be summarized as follows:
The Colorado BHA aims to ensure that all people in Colorado have access to high-quality, integrated, and person-centered behavioral health services that promote recovery, resilience, and wellness. Dr. Medlock’s vision for the BHA was to create a system of care that is comprehensive, coordinated, and equitable for individuals and families seeking behavioral health services in Colorado.
To achieve this vision, the BHA’s strategic plan laid out several key areas, including:
Strengthening the behavioral health system: The administration will work to create a stronger behavioral health system that is accessible, comprehensive, and responsive to the needs of individuals and families seeking services.
Expanding access to services: The administration will work to increase access to behavioral health services in underserved and rural areas of the state, as well as expand services for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
Promoting prevention and early intervention: The administration will prioritize prevention and early intervention efforts to promote mental health and prevent the development of serious mental illnesses.
Advancing equity and addressing disparities: The administration will work to address disparities in access to and quality of behavioral health services for historically-excluded communities, including Communities of Color and LGBTQ+ communities.
Overall, Dr. Medlock envisioned a future where all people in Colorado have access to the meaningful and trusted behavioral health services they need to experience whole-person health.
Sign the Petition to Reinstate Dr. Medlock
On Monday, April 17, 2023, Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) Commissioner, Morgan Medlock, MD, MDiv, MPH, a Black community leader, was unjustly removed from her Colorado cabinet position without cause. Her removal risks the lives of millions of people in Colorado who deserve accessible, trauma-informed, and culturally-responsive behavioral health care. It also perpetuates the message that strong, qualified Women of Color are vulnerable to the whims of political systems and cabinet leadership.
Demand justice for Dr. Medlock by signing the petition for Governor Polis to bring her back as the Commissioner of the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration (BHA).