Behavioral Health a Crisis in Rural Kansas

Growing up in rural Kansas, I've always understood the unique challenges faced by our communities. However, nothing could have prepared me for the urgency of addressing a critical issue that affects not only my neighbors but also my own family: the lack of mental health resources in rural areas.

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Recently, I took part in a panel discussion in Dodge City, where experts gathered to examine this critical issue. The statistics are staggering, as rural residents face a more than 64% higher risk of suicide compared to their urban counterparts, according to the Centers for Disease Control. This issue is deeply personal for me, as it affects not only our neighbors but also our children.

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My children, like many others in our community, experienced profound isolation during the pandemic. In rural America, our Farmers, just by where they live and what they do, experience this same isolation and are especially vulnerable, as evidenced by the high suicide rates among them. We understand the gravity of the situation, and while we may not have all the answers, forums like "Standing in the GAP", hosted by NAMI Kansas in Dodge City empower us to work collectively toward a brighter future.

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In rural Kansas, we face unique obstacles. Providers often must cover extensive distances and contend with limited resources, leading to burnout and inadequate care. Funding remains a persistent issue, leaving many individuals in need of crisis intervention without access to essential services. Transportation barriers persist for many residents, and the digital divide further exacerbates the problem, as not everyone has access to reliable internet for telehealth services.

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As we strive to address these challenges, CareSource is committed to playing a pivotal role in transforming rural health care and closing the health care gaps by:

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1. Expanding Telehealth Initiatives: CareSource recognizes the potential of telehealth and digital care to bridge the gap in access to me behavioral health services. We are investing in telehealth infrastructure and programs to provide remote behavioral health support to rural residents, ensuring they receive the care they deserve.

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2. Community Outreach and Education: We are committed to raising awareness and reducing stigma surrounding mental health in rural areas. CareSource is actively participate in community outreach and educational initiatives to promote the importance of seeking mental health assistance and understanding the resources that are available.

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3. Collaborative Partnerships: CareSource understands that addressing rural health care disparities requires collaboration. We are actively seeking partnerships with local health care providers, organizations, and stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that improve access to mental health services in rural Kansas.

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Addressing the mental health crisis in rural Kansas is a shared responsibility that demands collective action. Together, through collaboration between payors, providers, community based non-profits, and everday people in the communitites we live, we can bridge the resource gap, improve access to care, and provide a brighter and healthier future for all residents of western Kansas.

@caresourceemployee, @CareSourceHealthAlliance, @NAMIKansas, @SherrieVaughn