Look to peer-run crisis programs

THE EDITORIAL "Keep health reform on track" says Massachusetts could get between $1.6 billion and $2.6 billion in Medicaid federal stimulus money, and suggests spending some of it on low-income programs such as certain hospitals, clinics, and group homes. A better use of this stimulus money is increasing independence of people who use government-funded services. For example, group homes are long-term housing for people with mental illness, who generally are not expected to recover. Disempowered in mental hospitals, then sent to group homes, they soon fall into puerile dependency.

Peer-run crisis programs are alternatives to the low expectations of group homes and mental hospitals. Successful peer-run crisis alternatives already exist in New Hampshire, Maine, New York, and Georgia, and programs are being created in three other states, including Vermont. People who use peer-run crisis programs get significantly better, saving their states money, as these are much less expensive ways to treat mental illness than group homes, mental hospitals, state hospitals, emergency rooms, 911 calls, and ambulance trips.

These innovative programs, staffed by people who've "been there" and can model their wellness, are part of a nationwide transformation of the mental health system to promote recovery and resiliency.

Cathy A. Levin, Chairwoman,
Emergency room rights campaign
M-POWER Inc., Somerville