The Public Policy Forum has served as local facilitator and consultant to a project that has used national experts to examine gaps in Milwaukee County’s adult mental health care delivery system and devise ways to transform that system into one that more closely mirrors national best practices. A report authored by Massachusetts-based Human Services Research Institute is the culmination of that project.
The report relies on a comprehensive data-driven approach to analyze system weaknesses, identify key themes and issue recommendations. Recommendations involve 10 broad areas of mental health treatment and system design, with several additional recommendations in sub-categories for each. Funding considerations also are discussed. By suggesting a new strategic direction based on data and facts, the project team hopes this report can de-politicize a set of complex issues and challenges that must be confronted to improve the overall health of the community.