Statement from National Council President and CEO Chuck Ingoglia on the Decision by HHS to Make $20 Billion in Provider Relief Funding Available
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced plans to make $20 billion in new funding available to health care organizations on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic. That includes organizations that provide mental health and addiction recovery treatment and services. Under this Phase 3 General Distribution allocation, providers that have already received Provider Relief Fund payments will be invited to apply for additional funding that considers financial losses and changes in operating expenses caused by the coronavirus, according to a statement from HHS. The National Council provided the following statement in response to the decision by HHS to release this new funding:
“We applaud HHS’ recognition of the increased need and immense financial strain faced by mental health and addiction recovery organizations as a result of this brutal pandemic,” said Chuck Ingoglia, President and CEO of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. “The administration’s announcement of an additional $20 billion in relief funds gives much-needed support at a time when demand for mental health and substance use treatment has skyrocketed due to increased isolation, unemployment and other difficulties Americans face during this crisis.
“The National Council has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the struggles of people with mental health and substance use disorders and the professionals who provide their clients with treatment and services. We are deeply appreciative of the administration, including the Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, Dr. Elinore McCance-Katz, for acknowledging our efforts and recognizing the immediate need for emergency relief among mental health and addiction recovery organizations. Without mental health, there is no health. Without consistent treatment for substance use disorders, there is no recovery. Now, we encourage eligible organizations to take advantage of this invaluable opportunity.”
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About the National Council for Mental Wellbeing
The National Council for Mental Wellbeing is the unifying voice of America’s health care organizations that deliver mental health and addictions treatment and services. Together with our 3,326 member organizations serving over 10 million adults, children and families living with mental illnesses and addictions, the National Council is committed to all Americans having access to comprehensive, high-quality care that affords every opportunity for recovery. The National Council introduced Mental Health First Aid USA and 2 million Americans have been trained.
About The National Council
Founded in 1969, the National Council for Mental Wellbeing is a membership organization that drives policy and social change on behalf of over 3,400 mental health and substance use treatment organizations and the more than 10 million children, adults and families they serve. We advocate for policies to ensure equitable access to high-quality services. We build the capacity of mental health and substance use treatment organizations. And we promote greater understanding of mental wellbeing as a core component of comprehensive health and health care. Through our Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) program, we have trained more than 3 million people in the U.S. to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges.