In MayNational Mental Health Awareness Monthmany of HRSAs efforts bolstered President Bidens National Mental Health Strategy and underscored a key HRSA priority: addressing the mental health needs of children and families in underserved communities across the country. We awarded nearly $25 million to improve and strengthen access to school-based health services, launched a maternal mental health hotline, and urged states to strengthen support for childrens mental health. In addition, we announced the availability of $5 million to advance equity in cancer screening at health centers. HRSA leaders were also recognized for their remarkable service to the nation.
This month, key HRSA leaders were recognized for their service to the nation:
HRSA Deputy Administrator Diana Espinosa, winner of the 2021 Distinguished Executive Award, introduced President Biden at the White House ceremony announcing the Presidential Rank Awards and marking Public Service Recognition Week.
Suma Nair, Director of the Office of Quality Improvement, in the HRSA Bureau of Primary Health Care was named a Finalist for the 2022 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medal for COVID-19 Response and a Top 12 Finalist for Peoples Choice Award. Known as the Sammies, the service awards are administered by the Partnership for Public Service.Cast your vote for Suma!
HHS Leaders Urge States to Maximize Efforts to Support Childrens Mental Health
Last week, HRSA and leaders across the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued ajoint letter(PDF - 584 KB) to states, tribes, and jurisdictions encouraging them to prioritize and maximize their efforts to strengthen childrens mental health and well-being. As part of the National Tour to Strengthen Mental Health, Administrator Johnson also joined other HHS leaders to host a roundtable discussion to support President Bidens whole-of-government strategy and take up the Secretarys charge to strengthen mental health.Watch their remarks.
HHS Awards Nearly $25 Million to Expand Access to School-Based Health Services
HRSA awarded nearly $25 million to improve and strengthen access to school-based health services in communities across the country. Awards will support local partnerships between schools and health centers to provide children and youth the comprehensive physical and mental health care they need. HRSA Administrator Carole Johnson met with children and health center staff at Quincy Jones Elementary School in Los Angeles, CA, where the Universal Community Health Center operates a school-based health center. While there, she heard from students on the benefits of easy and convenient access to quality health care.
HHS Launches New Maternal Mental Health Hotline
On Mothers Day, HRSA launched the Maternal Mental Health Hotline, a new, confidential, toll-free hotline for expecting and new moms experiencing mental health challenges. Moms can call or text 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS and connect with counselors for mental health support.
HHS Announces $5 Million in Funding to Advance Equity in Cancer Screening at Health Centers
HRSA announced the availability of $5 million for community health centers to increase equitable access to life-saving cancer screenings. This funding supports President Bidens Unity Agenda and his call to action on cancer screening and early detection as part of the AdministrationsCancer Moonshotinitiative to end cancer as we know it.
HRSA Hosts National Telehealth Conference
HRSAs Office of Telehealth and telehealth.hhs.gov convened our inaugural national conference on telehealth, drawing an audience of nearly 4,000 and including leaders from across HHS, FCC, USDA and other agencies. View theconference sessionsand avideo about HRSAs telehealth efforts and advances.
