Muscogee (Creek) Nation Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse Services Awarded $8,291,875

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 11, 2017

Muscogee (Creek) Nation Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse Services Awarded $8,291,875

•Funds Address Substance Abuse and Substance Misuse in Indian Country.

OKMULGEE, Okla.— The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Health (MCNDH) Behavioral Health Services (BHS) is pleased to announce the receipt of a five-year grant award, 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 more 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.