Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, Wayne Health and Ford Motor Company collaborate on mobile behavioral health services from Dearborn Press and Guide
July 9, 2021
The Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN) in collaboration with Wayne Health and Ford X, Ford Motor Company’s internal venture incubator, is launching a mobile outreach and prevention program combining physical and behavioral health services and bringing them to residents in Detroit and Wayne County.
“We are very excited about this community collaboration to bring integrated physical and behavioral health services to those in need, right in their own backyards,” said DWIHN Interim President/CEO Eric Doeh. “The goal is to improve access to services by having a ‘no four walls’ approach. We understand that it is often difficult for people to seek behavioral health services due to transportation issues, geographic location, available clinic hours and stigma associated with mental health. These barriers can result in less people seeking services which can exacerbate issues and crisis situations. We want to eliminate those barriers.”
This collaboration came about during the COVID-19 pandemic when DWIHN worked closely with Wayne Health in providing vaccinations to thousands of people in the city of Detroit.
“We have a proven track record now and know that the Wayne Health Mobile Units can operate like traveling clinics. This enabled us to think about expanding the services and adding behavioral health to the already existing physical health services currently being offered,” said Dr. Phillip Levy, M.P.H. M.D. “Then we started talking to Ford X who has worked closely with us, concepting, designing and outfitting the vehicles to accommodate our needs.”
“Ford X, is thrilled to be a part of this collaboration with DWIHN and Wayne Health. The idea that the mobile health unit we co-developed during the pandemic can be adapted for use in the behavioral health arena is an exciting opportunity. We’re proud to help mobilize these services” says Kristin Welch, Strategy & Operations at Ford X.
Two mobile units will start hitting the streets mid-July and by the end of the year, collaboration leaders are aiming for at least five vehicles to be on the road providing integrated physical and behavioral health services to residents.
Mobile crisis intervention teams will offer community-based services. Two-person teams will include a licensed clinician experienced in assessing needs of individuals and a certified peer support staff to assist with engagement, coordination and warm transfers to outpatient providers. Services provided include COVID-19 vaccinations, flu shots, blood pressure and HIV screenings, Telehealth services, resource assistance, primary care physician referrals and much more. No appointment needed; ID and insurance are not required.
Read, “Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, Wayne Health and Ford Motor Company collaborate on mobile behavioral health services” from Dearborn Press and Guide.
