Reynolds said the current mental health system is “disconnected,” adding that these changes will provide an “integrated behavioral health system.”
DES MOINES, Iowa — Change is coming to Iowa’s mental health system and how it operates. Gov. Kim Reynolds signed legislation Wednesday that consolidates the state’s 32 mental health districts into seven districts. Also includes substance use disorder services.
Reynolds said the current system is “disconnected” and the new system will create an “integrated behavioral health system” in the state.
“There is a lack of clear access points for Iowans with disabilities,” Reynolds said. “Mental health districts receive funding from the state but are not aligned with the substance abuse disorder system.”
Each new mental health district would be managed by a state-appointed agency, with the Department of Health and Human Services providing necessary oversight.
“For the first time, the law puts in place an intentionally designed system that includes preventive care and recovery. This is phenomenal,” said Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kelly Garcia.
Mental health advocates say they appreciate the attention to mental health, but are cautious about future changes.
Ryan Crane, executive director of the Iowa National Alliance on Mental Illness, told Local 5. “We are cautiously optimistic that this redesign will create a better pathway to care for all Iowans. We don’t know the details yet, but the state is focused on this issue. “I’m excited about accountability, outcomes, and quality care.” ”
Each mental health district is required to provide a standard set of core services. These standard services include a statewide system of prevention, education, early intervention, treatment, recovery support, and crisis response services related to mental health and addictive disorders.
“This is a monumental change and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Garcia said. “Team members have told me they’ve been waiting their entire careers to commit to this type of change.”
Changes will take effect on July 1, 2025.
