Transformation of the mental health system in America is a monumental task. The system must be redirected towards its primary goal – helping adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances achieve recovery to live, work, learn and participate fully in their communities. Federal agencies can act as leaders and as facilitators, promoting shared responsibility for change at the Federal, State, and local levels, in such areas as public education, research, service system capacity, and technology development.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has established for its work a clear vision – a life in the community for everyone. It has focused its mission on building resilience and facilitating recovery for people with or at risk for mental or substance use disorders. To visit the SAMHSA website, please click the link under "Related Links Outside CMS".
The Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) is the primary Federal agency for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, isolated, or medically vulnerable. It provides national leadership, program resources and services needed to improve access to culturally competent, quality health care. To visit the HRSA website, please click the link under "Related Links Outside CMS".
CMS works collaboratively with both of these Federal agencies. Please see the additional resources under "Related Links Outside of CMS" for additional information.