Press release
For publication on July 20, 2022
Contact: Sara Teachout
(802) 371-3254
[email protected]
Vermont Blue Advantage Strengthens Access to Mental Health Care
Berlin, Vermont – With the pandemic hindering access to mental health and substance abuse services at an all-time high, Vermont Blue Advantage announces a new partnership with Brattleboro Retreat and Vermont Collaborative Care to build support for Vermonters eligible for Medicare that integrates management. substance use disorder and mental health with physical health care.
According to the Vermont Department of Health, between 15,000 and 20,000 Vermonters with opioid use disorder need treatment. A recent presentation to the Green Mountain Care Board noted that 58% of emergency department patients have a mental health diagnosis, but only half of those referred with mental health issues receive follow-up care. The gap can be closed with proactive care management and point-of-care expansion.
“Isolation and stress have had a critical impact on Vermonters,” says Pam Getsie, president of the Vermont Blue Advantage Plan. “We have been working to build our network to ensure our members can access key supports that connect substance abuse, mental health and physical health care.”
Vermont Collaborative Care is a nonprofit partnership between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont and Brattleboro Retreat. By using health claims and clinical data, care managers can help members across providers with different skills to help a person access and maintain care that works for them.
“Navigating the complex health care system alone can be daunting, even for experienced providers seeking their own care,” says Dr. James Benton, a clinical psychologist and director of psychology training at Brattleboro Retreat. “Having a care advocate on your side who understands the layering system can make all the difference in quality outcomes.”
Beginning July 1, Vermont Blue Advantage members have access to services at Brattleboro Retreat, and in 2023 care management will be available through Vermont Collaborative Care. There are other providers available in the network. For more information, contact Vermont Blue Advantage at 800-516-8021. Current members can contact the customer service team at the number on the back of the member ID card.
Vermont Blue Advantage is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information visit vermontblueadvantage.com.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont is Vermont’s only local nonprofit health plan. For more than 30 years, the company has been improving the health and well-being of Vermonters by offering innovative plans for individuals, seniors and businesses. Our employees are dedicated to developing new ways to support care and high-quality programs and events that promote wellness. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information visit www.bcbsvt.com.
Connect with Vermont Blue Advantage:
Facebook: @vermontblueadvantage
Instagram: @vermontblueadvantage
LinkedIn: @vermontblueadvantage
Twitter: @Vtblueadvantage
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