About

The need for a dynamic behavioral health care system in Idaho has never been stronger.

The behavioral health challenges facing Idaho are clear – and the time has come to
create solutions to these challenges.

The facts drive a compelling story for change.

  • Death by suicide: Idaho’s suicide rate is almost 50 percent higher than the national average.
  • Geography: While much of the state is classified as rural or frontier, many resources (crisis centers,.) are located in larger communities with limited access outside of these hubs.
  • Workforce shortages: The entire state of Idaho is designated as a Mental Health Professional Shortage Area. For example, there are approximately 75 practicing psychiatrists in Idaho, or around 5 psychiatrists per 100,000 residents[1].
  • Transitions of care: As individuals transition between services or levels of care, there is little support for families in navigating those transitions successfully, including care coordination.
  • Youth. Children and Youth services are lacking with many youth receiving inpatient care out of state with few options for treatment while transitioning them home.
  • Crisis response system: There is no standard process or unified system offering care traffic control and ensuring a minimum standard of response. The existing crisis centers cannot meet the total needs of the state.
  • Stigma: Because anonymity is difficult to maintain in rural areas, stigma is associated with asking for, and receiving, help.
  • Substance use disorder (SUD): SUD rates continue to soar; more than 14 percent of those aged 18-25 report a substance dependence.

How the Idaho Behavioral Health Collaborative benefits Idahoans

For Idahoans:
Data helps the Idaho Behavioral Health Collaborative to craft personalized solutions that support the right care for an individual’s mental health and well-being. Individuals become more engaged in care when they experience a plan unique to them. It’s personal, makes sense, and it works. Their total health improves, and they’re more satisfied with the experience.

For the state of Idaho:
Tapping into data at both the individual and population levels, we deliver a system of care that supports the right care for mental health and wellbeing, for individuals and communities alike. As responsible fiscal stewards, we manage the rising costs of care while prioritizing the improved health and wellbeing of all Idahoans.

For providers:
Data helps us to support providers. As their trusted partner, we share insights gained from data to support them in focusing on the business of providing the best possible care to their patients. Our local and regionally-focused support provides a community-based approach that develops provider network capabilities and capacity across Idaho. We share outcomes and evidence-based practices to help providers become even better at their mission of restoring health and improving lives. Create a behavioral health plan that meets the needs of the community and helps individuals live their life to the fullest.