Dr. Medlock’s Visionary Leadership Aligned the BHA Strategic Plan and HB22-1278
Dr. Medlock’s visionary leadership ensured the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration’s strategic plan released in January 2023 aligned with the intentions and goals of HB22-1278, the 2022 Behavioral Health Administration Legislation, which was designed to improve the delivery of behavioral health services in Colorado. HB22-1278 required the BHA to develop a strategic plan to improve the behavioral health system in Colorado.
Both the strategic plan and HB22-1278 prioritize the need to expand access to behavioral health services, promote prevention and early intervention efforts, and address disparities in access to and quality of behavioral health services. They also recognize the need for a comprehensive and coordinated behavioral health system that is person-centered and responsive to the needs of individuals and families seeking services.
One of the key highlights where the two align is the focus on strengthening the behavioral health system by developing a more comprehensive and coordinated care system. This includes integrating physical and digital behavioral health services, developing a statewide network of providers, and expanding services in underserved and rural areas. Another area of alignment is the focus on promoting prevention and early intervention efforts to prevent the development of serious mental illnesses (SMIs) and improve overall mental health outcomes. Both HB22-1278 and the strategic plan recognize the importance of addressing social determinants of health and promoting equity in access to behavioral health services.
Overall, the BHA strategic plan is an action plan that aligns with the goals of HB22-1278 and provides a roadmap for improving the delivery of behavioral health services in the state and achieving transformational reform. Dr. Morgan Medlock championed the creation of the BHA’s implementation and monitoring dashboard to demonstrate her commitment to transparency and truth in Colorado state government, and the BHA’s progress toward achieving these goals
With thoughtful intention the plan and the legislation both prioritize the need for a comprehensive and coordinated behavioral health system that is person-centered, accessible, and equitable for all people of Colorado.
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).