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Grading the States 2009 Report Card: Arkansas
In 2006, Arkansas received a D and now drops to an F. The lack of investment in evidence-based practices (EBPs) is a crucial failing. The complete absence of police Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT), jail diversion programs, and mental health courts relative to other states is another critical factor in the state's falling behind... Full narrative (PDF).
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Health Promotion and Measurement: F 25% of Total Grade
Basic measures, such as the number of programs delivering evidence-based practices,
emergency room wait-times, and the quantity of psychiatric beds by setting.
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Financing & Core Treatment/Recovery Services: D 45% of Total Grade
A variety of financing measures, such as whether Medicaid reimburses providers for all, or part of evidence-based practices; and more.
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Consumer & Family Empowerment: F 15% of Total Grade
Includes measures such as consumer and family access to essential information from the
state, promotion of consumer-run programs, and family and peer education and support.
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Community Integration and Social Inclusion: F 15% of Total Grade
Includes activities that require collaboration among state mental health agencies and other state agencies and systems.
Innovations
- Data collection system
- Mental heath services for veterans
- Cross screening for mental illness and substance abuse
Urgent Needs
- Evidence-based practices
- Crisis services
- CIT and jail diversion
- Services for homeless persons
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"Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) is the best thing about mental health services in our state. But we need more funding ... There are many people who need this service that are not being reached."
"It has been extremely difficult to find out what services and programs are available for my daughter. Even the mental health professionals are not much help."
"Anyone who wanted real care was forced to seek help in another city, usually an hour and 30 minutes away."
