Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota has committed $5 million over five years to open an outpatient clinic in Mankato that will address the rural mental health care shortage and provide hands-on training for the next generation of nurses, counselors and psychologists.
Minnesota’s largest nonprofit health insurer on Tuesday announced funding for clinics that will open later this year and provide in-person mental health care in eight counties surrounding Mankato. Federal List There will be a shortage of mental health professionals in 2022 and beyond.
“Geography should not be a barrier to accessing mental health and behavioral health services,” said Bret Hart, vice president of behavioral health and mental health equity for Eagan-based Blue Cross. “Too often, especially in Minnesota, mental health needs far outstrip available resources.”
Depression and anxiety have been problems in Minnesota, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, with about 24% of Minnesota adults diagnosed with some form of depression in 2022. Federal Investigation ResultsThis is up from 18% ten years ago.
Mankato and surrounding Blue Earth County have some of the highest poverty rates in Minnesota, which can exacerbate mental health issues: The depression rate among low-income Minnesota adults was 43% in 2022.
Blue Cross’ investment comes in partnership with the University of Minnesota, Mankato, and its College of Health and Nursing, which will place students at the clinic to practice their training under the supervision of faculty and licensed professionals.
“There is no other academic training clinic in the state of Minnesota that is dedicated to providing comprehensive outpatient mental health services to rural residents,” said Edward Inch, president of the college.
The Minnesota Legislature also allocated $1.5 million for the clinic in 2023. The clinic will provide mental health counseling and medication management to patients of all ages, with or without insurance. The clinic will be located adjacent to the university campus and will eventually expand to offer virtual therapy appointments, psychoeducational evaluations and substance use disorder counseling.
