Muscogee (Creek) Nation Behavioral Health awarded $8 Mil to treat substance abuse

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 March 2, 2017

Muscogee (Creek) Nation Behavioral Health awarded $8 Mil to treat substance abuse

OKMULGEE, Okla. — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Health (MCNDH) Behavioral Health Services (BHS) is pleased to announce the receipt of an $8,291,875 five-year grant, including annual funding of $1,658,375. This opportunity is funded by The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT).

This grant will fund a new program known as Many Paths-SBIRT through MCNDH BHS. The new program will focus on a practical approach called “Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment,” or “SBIRT,” and will support earlier diagnosis and treatment of substance misuse.

Studies show that SBIRT can be a cost effective way to prevent serious complications from substance abuse. Many Paths- SBIRT will screen adults in primary care for substance misuse and substance use disorders (SUD).

On February 6, 2017 a pilot program was implemented into the Koweta Indian Health Center.

“This is a chance at early intervention and prevention for American Indian people in our communities” said Michael Burnside, SBIRT Project Director.

Mr. Burnside went on to say “Many Paths is a non-judgmental approach to work with adults who suffer from alcohol and substance use disorders”.

If you have any questions about Many Paths-SBIRT please contact Muscogee (Creek) Nation Behavioral Health Services at 918-758-1910.