Iowa’s mental health and substance abuse systems will undergo a major restructuring next summer, following legislation signed earlier this year by Governor Kim Reynolds. The law will merge the state’s 32 regional mental health and substance abuse systems into seven behavioral health districts.
Initially, advocates like Leslie Carpenter of Iowa Mental Health Advocacy welcomed the proposed changes, anticipating local input within the new districts. However, concerns have risen after the state announced last week that the Iowa Primary Care Association (IPCA) will oversee all seven districts as a single provider.
Sarah Dixon of the IPCA reassured stakeholders that the organization will staff each district to address unique local needs, ensure system navigation, and foster community engagement. She emphasized the organization’s commitment to a smooth transition without disrupting current care.
Carpenter, however, worries the transition could result in the loss of experienced behavioral health staff. Iowa HHS is finalizing the statewide behavioral health plan and will open it for public input in January before the changes take effect.
