PO Box 81071
Lansing, MI 48917
Burning Issues in Prevention 2012:
“How Does Prevention Fit in Health Care Reform?
Starting the Conversation”
MPA’s Burning Issues Conference took place on Thursday, November 8th, in Lansing. Michael Etzinger, Deputy Director of the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) was the keynote speaker on “A New Era for Prevention: Integration is the Future.” He emphasized collaboration at all levels is the key for future prevention efforts.
“The Michigan Perspective: Prevention and Health Care Reform” was presented by Larry Scott, Bureau of Substance Abuse and Addiction Services Prevention Section Manager. He discussed the expansion of Medicaid, greater access to health care and BSAAS ‘s prevention initiatives related to Health Care Reform. He also emphasized collaboration with qualified health centers, health departments, Indian health services, and university health and counseling centers. Mr. Scott identified BSAAS’s priority focus areas in their strategic plan as: 1) reduce underage and adult problem drinking, 2) prescription and over-the-counter drug abuse, 3) tobacco use, and 4) suicide attempts and deaths.
Following lunch a panel discussion took place on “The Integration of Prevention and Health Care.” Panelists were Brittany Beard-Health Access Coordinator, Achiles Malta-Substance Abuse Prevention Coordinator, Larry Scott-Prevention Section Manager for BSAAS, and Steve Wiland-Manager at Michigan’s Department of Community Health. Following the panel question and answers participants were able to break up into round table discussions to discuss their fears and hopes for the future of prevention.
“The Michigan Perspective: Prevention and Health Care Reform” was presented by Larry Scott, Bureau of Substance Abuse and Addiction Services Prevention Section Manager. He discussed the expansion of Medicaid, greater access to health care and BSAAS ‘s prevention initiatives related to Health Care Reform. He also emphasized collaboration with qualified health centers, health departments, Indian health services, and university health and counseling centers. Mr. Scott identified BSAAS’s priority focus areas in their strategic plan as: 1) reduce underage and adult problem drinking, 2) prescription and over-the-counter drug abuse, 3) tobacco use, and 4) suicide attempts and deaths.
Following lunch a panel discussion took place on “The Integration of Prevention and Health Care.” Panelists were Brittany Beard-Health Access Coordinator, Achiles Malta-Substance Abuse Prevention Coordinator, Larry Scott-Prevention Section Manager for BSAAS, and Steve Wiland-Manager at Michigan’s Department of Community Health. Following the panel question and answers participants were able to break up into round table discussions to discuss their fears and hopes for the future of prevention.