Axis Health System announced that they received a planning, development and implementation grant to become the first certified community behavioral health clinic in rural Southwest Colorado.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration granted Axis a notice of award for its commitment to enhance behavioral health and addiction services while strengthening the community and saving lives.
The project to expand CCBHC will begin in spring 2024 when its Durango Integrated Healthcare Campus opens.
Axis will receive $1 million per year to create and improve the CCBHC program over a span of four years. It received the only award in Colorado this year.
According to a news release, the behavioral health clinics help reconstruct mental health and substance use treatment throughout the country while providing sustainable funds for vigorous community outpatient mental health treatments. They must provide a range of services, including crisis services and other support depending on the community’s needs.
The health care system needs to serve anyone who requests mental health or addiction care, no matter their age, ability to pay or place of residence.
Axis intends to expand access to high-quality and cost-effective health care services for every population, specifically Latinx people, the LGBTQI+ community, veterans and their families and adults who need a higher-intensity substance use disorder treatment.
On top of treating those in need, the grant will also create 10 new jobs throughout the four-year project.
“Axis Health System’s mental health and addiction treatment services, as well as round-the-clock crisis intervention, don’t just save lives – they strengthen the entire community,” Sen. John Hickenlooper said. “This award will create jobs and expand work in underserved communities, all while keeping care affordable.”
When in crisis
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, don’t wait. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org or contact the 24/7 Axis Care Line at 970.247.5245. Services are free and confidential.
