SAMHSA Grants $25 million to Expand Health Information Technology Usage

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced today it is awarding up to 29 new grants, totaling up to $25 million over three years, to expand use of health information technology to increase access to behavioral health services. This program will leverage technology to improve access and coordination of the treatment of mental and substance use disorders especially for Americans in remote areas or in underserved populations. Web-based services, smart phones, and behavioral health electronic applications (e-apps) will enhance communication between patients and health care providers to improve discussions about treatment options and decisions, and better manage health.Each grantees may receive up to $280,000 annually over three-years. The actual amounts may vary, depending on availability of funds and progress achieved by the recipients. The recipients are as followed: