Operation Better Together: A Pioneering Model for Youth Mental Health Care in Rural Appalachia
In a groundbreaking initiative, the University of Cincinnati, in collaboration with the Adams County Health Department (ACHD), has launched a transformative mental health care model, dubbed “Operation Better Together.” This project, which has garnered a significant $1.75 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), seeks to address the critical mental health needs of the youth in rural Appalachia, particularly in Adams County, Ohio. Amid a backdrop of increasing mental health crises exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, this innovative approach aims to dismantle the barriers to care that have historically plagued disadvantaged communities.
The struggle for accessible mental health care has become even more pronounced as telehealth services surged during the pandemic. Despite the rise of virtual consultations, many individuals still face obstacles such as extended wait times and unreliable internet connections, which can handicap those seeking crucial mental health services. Through Operation Better Together, the University of Cincinnati and local partners are striving to create a sustainable and replicable model that bridges these gaps and offers efficient, effective care directly to those in need.
The urgency of this need was starkly revealed in a community health assessment conducted by ACHD in 2017, which highlighted mental health and substance abuse as the foremost public health issues in Adams County. The data revealed an alarming lack of resources available to address these challenges, with the region already grappling with significant socioeconomic disadvantages. Notably, Adams County ranked as the second poorest in Ohio, standing as a testament to the complex relationship between poverty and health outcomes. Compounded by a complete absence of psychiatrists in the area at that time, the community was in dire need of innovative solutions.
Danielle Poe, the director of behavioral health at ACHD, emphasized the stark reality faced by individuals seeking mental health support: "Accessing care often entailed a lengthy journey, either through telehealth services—which were lacking—or a drive of up to an hour to reach a care provider." Recognizing that mere availability of telehealth would not suffice, the initiative sought to embed mental health services into familiar community settings, creating a robust support network.
The momentum for Operation Better Together surged following an emergency meeting convened by Adams County Common Pleas Court Judge Brett Spencer, which brought together an array of stakeholders, including local organizations, school officials, and business leaders, to discuss mental health’s impact on youths. This collaborative spirit became the bedrock of the initiative, demonstrating that a multifaceted approach could enhance care delivery and treatment efficacy.
One of the pivotal principles of Operation Better Together is its multi-tiered approach to mental health care. This model is strategically designed to serve a wide array of student needs. The first tier emphasizes school-based mental health solutions including school counselors, resource officers, and classroom initiatives aimed at initial access to services. For those requiring individual therapy, the second tier introduces licensed therapists stationed within schools and community resources, followed by a third tier that connects students to telehealth specialists from the University of Cincinnati. This structured yet flexible system ensures that care is not only accessible but also tailored to the varying needs of students with different severity of symptoms.
Dr. Melissa Wagner, an associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience at UC, noted the advantages of providing care in school settings: "Conducting most appointments during school hours not only respects students’ time but also simplifies access, especially for those who struggle with transportation or stable internet." This accessibility is crucial, ensuring that students receive the care they need without the added burden of travel, which can be particularly daunting in a rural setting.
The recent HRSA funding is set to amplify the project, allowing for the formalization of partnerships with local pediatricians—a move meant to enhance the integration of care services. “While we informally collaborate now, this grant facilitates structured alliances that will ultimately improve service delivery,” said Dr. Kaitlyn Bruns, an assistant professor at UC. Establishing clear communication and continuity among care providers will streamline access to mental health services, mirroring models that have proven effective in other communities.
Early results paint a positive picture for the program, with more than 3,000 children already benefitting from Operation Better Together since its inception. However, the project does not rest on its laurels; rigorous tracking and analysis of service engagement are critical components of its five-year plan. By monitoring the utilization of various tiers and identifying key barriers to mental health care, the team aims to refine its approach and enhance outcomes for youth.
As the initiative continues to evolve, success stories abound. One particularly poignant example involves a student whose mental health challenges led them to the brink of academic suspension. Through comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment, the student not only improved their academic performance but also regained stability in their everyday life, transitioning from intensive therapy to less frequent sessions as progress was made. Such transformations underscore the profound ramifications that targeted mental health interventions can have on vulnerable young lives.
Operation Better Together arrives at a crucial moment as mental health concerns among youth have surged, reaching alarming levels nationwide. The initiative sets a precedent, demonstrating that collective action and innovative care models can lead to meaningful change, especially in underserved communities. By addressing not only the symptoms but also the socioeconomic factors contributing to mental health issues, the project embodies a holistic approach to wellness.
The attention garnered by Operation Better Together may also serve a broader purpose; as one of only 20 HRSA-funded sites focusing on telemental health, it has the potential to influence national policy regarding mental health care funding through insurance models rather than reliance on grants. This dual approach of compassionate care coupled with data-driven advocacy can pave the way for substantial reforms in mental health care access, transforming how youth are supported throughout the country.
As the team reflects on their journey, the lingering presence of students who once felt forgotten now drives their vision forward. “To witness those same children, previously voicing their isolation and struggles, receive recognition and resources is a profound validation of our efforts,” Poe remarked. Operation Better Together not only strives to heal its community but also aims to inspire a nationwide movement towards improved mental health care access for all, ensuring that no child is left behind.
Subject of Research: Collaborative Mental Health Care Model for Youth
Article Title: Operation Better Together: A Pioneering Model for Youth Mental Health Care in Rural Appalachia
News Publication Date: October 2023
Web References: University of Cincinnati News
References: Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
Image Credits: Photo provided by Danielle Poe/Adams County Health Department
Keywords: Mental Health Care, Telemental Health, Rural Health, Youth Services, Public Health, Collaboration, Telehealth, Access to Care, Community Health
