PIERRE, SD – The Mental Health Services Delivery Task Force of the South Dakota legislature held their first meeting of the interim last week.
Committee member, Representative Jean Hunhoff of Yankton says they got an update on the status of mental health services and availability.
“We heard how we can have the access, the timeliness and the right services available for individuals who have behavioral health needs. The next step is looking at other models that are out there, in other states.”
Hunhoff says they need to look beyond just the costs of these type of services. “I want to look at first, what is the model. If we start focusing on the money, that always hinders the discussion.”
Hunhoff says many people don’t have any idea how to get mental health services. “What’s the better way to get the message out? If someone is in need, what is the best combination of services available and how do we communicate that?”
Hunhoff says they may have some changes for the 2021 legislative session to consider. The task force meets again next month.
