In Case You Haven't Heard…

Abstract

Despite what you may have heard (see https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.34880), the “integration” that is happening in New York State is not a merger of agencies. The Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) and the Office of Mental Health are not merging. Evan Frost, director of communications and public information at OASAS told ADAW that there was no plan to merge the agencies. Rather, both agencies are developing a new integrated license under Article 36 of the Mental Hygiene Law. Frost compares this license to that of the state's crisis stabilization centers. “This is part of the agencies' efforts to have a continuum of services for individuals with co-occurring disorders,” said Frost. “The new license is a collaborative effort between the two agencies, which includes working together on the licensing process, with both agencies responsible for providing oversight and guidance and conducting joint site visits. Programs would have the ability to apply for this integrated license, or they could obtain a separate a license to provide either mental health under the existing Article 31 of the Mental Hygiene Law, or substance use services under Article 32 of Mental Hygiene Law.” Thanks for the clarification, Evan.