WellStone to become one of Alabama’s first Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics and Implement Transformative Model of Care
The State Selected for CCBHC Medicaid Demonstration Program
Huntsville, AL, Alabama’s behavioral healthcare system begins an important transition this week, and WellStone is one of two community mental health centers in the state leading the way toward a new model of care. Announced by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Alabama is one of ten states selected for the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Medicaid Demonstration Program by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in partnership with SAMHSA.
WellStone (Madison County) joins AltaPointe Health (Mobile County) as one of the first two clinics in the state to be certified as a CCBHC and implement this transformative model of care. The CCBHC model of care ensures access to 24/7 crisis care and accessibility to services regardless of ability to pay, and strengthens care coordination efforts with hospitals, law enforcement, and schools. With its implementation comes transformed behavioral healthcare systems – and transformed communities.
“Today’s announcement and Alabama’s selection to join the CCBHC demonstration program will transform mental healthcare in our state. It will eventually lead to better access to care and an expanded continuum of care,” says CEO Jeremy Blair.
WellStone first received funding in 2022 to adopt the CCBHC model of care, leading to an expansion of services, including the addition of primary care, the implementation of a much-needed adult mobile crisis team in Huntsville, and more. With inclusion to the CCBHC Medicaid Demonstration Program comes new, sustainable funding to continue and expand these services and others, building upon WellStone’s robust continuum of care.
According to the Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH), “CCBHCs are providing an estimated three million people nationally with mental health and substance abuse treatment and care, with 79% of clinics serving more people after becoming a CCBHC, according to the 2024 CCBHC Impact Report. States that have successfully implemented the CCBHC Model are seeing improvements in 24/7 access to quality care, workforce capacity, and improved patient outcomes.”
CCBHCs offer a comprehensive range of mental health and substance abuse disorder services, ensuring accessibility for all individuals seeking care, regardless of their ability to pay or place of residence. CCBHCs integrate mental health and substance use treatment with physical health care, adhere to rigorous quality and accountability standards, and work to remove barriers to treatment. The model also increases the availability of crisis intervention services. This initiative builds on the ADMH Alabama Crisis System of Care, which includes crisis services throughout the state.
WellStone is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and North Alabama’s mental healthcare leader, serving children, adolescents, and adults in Madison County, Cullman County, and surrounding communities.
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