IV . Brief Summary of Stage 1 and 2 Reports
V .
Stage 1 Report Highlights
A . Stage 1 Resource Inventory and Mapping of Existing Services
The Stage 1 Report provided a set of four maps that show the Polk County based behavioral health ( including substance use disorder ) care facilities . The maps present information by Type of Service , Setting , Population Served , and the Availability of Telehealth Services . Each map also includes a hyperlink which allows readers to access the online , interactive map and view contact information and other data about each site . The four maps are included in the Appendix of this report and are listed and hyperlinked below . It ’ s recommended that the maps be managed and updated by an agreed upon entity , such as the noted coalition or other organization that manages other community-wide resources .
B . Stage 1 Report Key Themes and Issues in Behavioral Health ( Stakeholders )
The primary objective of Stage 1 stakeholder interviews was to learn about currently available resources , services that are working well , and to gain initial insight regarding service gaps , and ways to better meet community needs . The stakeholders were very forthcoming in their ability and willingness to participate , and their insights helped to inform Stage 2 . Some of their observations are noted below .
1 . Capacity and Access to Care Remain Major Challenges
• Most stakeholders agree that demand for behavioral health , including substance use disorder services , outweighs the supply of and accessibility to providers .
• The concentration of providers around the Greater Lakeland area ( and subsequently fewer providers elsewhere in the county ) creates a barrier to care for those living outside of Lakeland . The large geographic area of Polk County contributes to the difficulty of receiving care .
• A significant amount of red tape makes it challenging for people who need care to receive it in a timely manner .
• Interviewees stated that a lack of awareness of available financial support results in some individuals not seeking needed ( and available ) care .
• It ’ s not easy for individuals to find where to take the first steps required to seek care . Need increased awareness of a “ central telephone number ” or “ no wrong door ” policy .
“ It ' s hard to know where to start to get help .”
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