2024-2028 IBHC Strategic Action Plan Implementation
WorkforceInfrastructure #1: Implement strategies to increase recruitment and retention to strengthen the behavioral health professional workforce.1. Expand Behavioral Health Training Programs2/5 complete
Item
Status
Notes
Conduct a statewide analysis of existing behavioral health degree programs
Complete
Deployed form v1
Identify gaps in internship and residence opportunities
In progress (60%)
2 of 5 sessions done
Partner with training programs and facilities to increase placements and expand the number of trainees
Not started
2. Strengthen the Peer Support Specialists, Certified Recovery Coaches, Certified Peer Recovery Coaches, and Peer and Family Support Specialists Workforce1/3 complete
Item
Status
Notes
Conduct a comprehensive workforce analysis to assess the current state of paraprofessionals Peer Support Specialists, Certified Recovery Coaches, Certified Peer Recovery Coaches, and Peer and Family Support Specialists in Idaho.
Complete
150 providers checked
Collaborate with the Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses (DOPL) to update Idaho statute and rule, ensuring standardized certification and training for paraprofessionals.
In progress (40%)
Housing + Food done
Engage paraprofessionals Peer Support Specialists, Certified Recovery Coaches, Certified Peer Recovery Coaches, and Peer and Family Support Specialists in focus groups to understand workforce challenges, wage compensation, needs, and opportunities for growth.
Not started
3. Address Rural and Remote Workforce Gaps1/3 complete
Item
Status
Notes
Gather data from clinics in rural areas to understand barriers to recruitment and retention.
Complete
150 providers checked
Conduct an inventory of existing workforce strategies to identify what is working and what needs improvement.
In progress (40%)
Housing + Food done
Develop recommendations to support workforce expansion in underserved areas.
Not started
PARS
Program Awareness and Reduction of StigmaPromotion #1: Develop an outreach and marketing strategy to increase awareness of publicly and privately funded programs and services. Address and reduce behavioral health stigma.1. Integrate 211 and findhelpidaho.org as the central database of services available, facilitating a no wrong door approach2/5 complete
Item
Status
Notes
Partnership between DHW and United Way to ensure resource databases for 211 and findhelp.org are up to date and accessible by the general public regardless of how they are accessed
Complete
Deployed form v1
Ensure callers to 211 are connected to appropriate resources on every call and are made aware of online resources available through findhelp as appropriate.
Complete
Deployed form v1
Utilize existing systems in findhelpidaho to serve individuals searching for resources outside of normal business hours/operation hours for 211.
In progress (60%)
2 of 5 sessions done
2. Implement the Sources of Strength Program in Idaho Middle and High Schools1/3 complete
Item
Status
Notes
Identify and engage key stakeholders to promote program adoption. Identify a specific school in each area of the state to be the ‘model’ school that can help other local schools with training and implementation.
Complete
150 providers checked
Provide training and onboarding to school staff and peer leaders in each initial participating school.
In progress (40%)
Housing + Food done
Develop a statewide implementation and evaluation plan that includes metrics for adoption, engagement, and effectiveness.
Not started
3. Education for educators, teachers, and parents 1/3 complete
Item
Status
Notes
Compile a list of all existing mental health related courses already available to teachers.
Complete
150 providers checked
Create for-credit professional development courses for teachers, available through ISU’s Albion Center for Professional Development.
In progress (40%)
Housing + Food done
Promote existing and newly created courses through social channels, email blasts, and newsletters.
Not started
4. Recommend educational programs tailored for rural Idahoans to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and improve understanding of mental health.1/3 complete
Item
Status
Notes
Multi-Channel Outreach – Targeted media approach and outreach – statewide.
Complete
150 providers checked
Storytelling & Lived Experience Integration – Develop a path to normalized conversations and peer to peer programs.
In progress (40%)
Housing + Food done
Skills-Based Training – Develop a plan to implement mental health training and workshops in each Public Health District.
Not started
*Service Awareness & Navigation (Find Help Idaho, 211, Jannus) – Public awareness of mental health resource access / availability and referral pathways.
