Consumer-Focus

Maryland’s Public Mental Health System remains a consumer-focused, recovery-oriented system of care. Both at the policy and program level, consumers and families play an essential role in defining Maryland’s Public Mental Health System (PMHS). Consumers and families are assisted and encouraged to become advocates in their recovery and in mental health systems transformation. In collaboration with many mental health advocacy and support organizations, and through the leadership and guidance of MHA’s Office of Consumer Affairs, many exciting consumer-run programs and initiatives are developing and expanding, such as peer-support groups and self-directed care projects.

The PMHS’ Consumer Quality Council, which meets monthly, provides valuable input to furthering system’s change to improve access and the quality of services. Anyone that wishes to learn more about these programs and/or become an active “change agent” in Maryland’s PMHS, please contact MHA’s Office of Consumer Affairs at 410-402-8447, or contact ValueOptions Consumer Liaison at 1-800-888-1965 ext. 4779 or

 

http://maryland.valueoptions.com/

Consumer Choice

The Mental Hygiene Administration values consumer choice. Consumers’ wishes and needs drive the referral process in obtaining a provider of service. The consumer’s preference and consumer’s needs are carefully balanced in selecting a provider within the PMHS.

Consumer preferences can be identified in the following areas:

Consumer needs are identified in at least the following areas:

Consumers and or families members can contact ValueOptions (the Administrative Services Agency for the PMHS) for information on services within the PMHS and or getting a referral for a provider.