Abt to Help Train Behavioral Health Specialists in Under-served Communities for HRSA’s Bureau of Health Workforce
Rockville, Md. – An estimated 122 million Americans—37 percent of the population—live in areas with a behavioral health professional shortage, and an additional 6,398 mental health providers are needed to close the gap. To help address this, the Health Resources and Services Administration’s (HRSA) Bureau of Health Workforce (BHW) plans to increase the number of behavioral health-related paraprofessionals working in underserved communities.
The agency has awarded Abt Associates, in partnership with the Institute for American Apprenticeships (IAA), $4.5 million to provide training and technical assistance to Opioid Impacted Family Support program and Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training Paraprofessional program grantees. These services will help advance apprenticeship programs with a specific focus on better supporting communities with a high need of behavioral health care.
“Abt’s deep expertise in behavioral health and history of work with families affected by opioid abuse is especially suited to meeting the goals of this project, said Abt Principal Associate Ann Loeffler, MSPH. “We look forward to expanding our longstanding partnership with HRSA by collaborating with BHW and IAA.”
About Abt Associates
Abt Associates is a global consulting and research firm that uses data and bold thinking to improve the quality of people’s lives. From combatting infectious disease and conducting rigorous program evaluations, to ensuring safe drinking water and promoting access to affordable housing—and more—we partner with clients and communities to tackle their most complex challenges. https://www.abtassociates.com
Contact:
Eric Tischler
eric_tischler@abtassoc.com
(301) 347-5492
