Arisa Health Announces Changes to CMHC Status
Arisa Health Announces Changes to CMHC Status
As the designated Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) in 41 Arkansas counties, Arisa Health has relied on limited state and federal funds to provide mandated, comprehensive services to uninsured, underinsured, Medicaid, and other vulnerable populations — regardless of ability to pay. While Arisa historically absorbed funding gaps to maintain access to care, the level of supplemental support required in the most recent contract cycle has grown exponentially and is no longer sustainable.
After more than 55 years serving Arkansas communities as part of the statewide network of CMHCs, Arisa Health has decided not to submit a bid for the new CMHC contract.
While the CMHC services have been a core part of Arisa’s identity, they represent only a portion of the organization’s comprehensive behavioral health services which Arisa Health will continue to serve and grow through additional state programs, as well as care for Medicaid clients, including PASSE members, and other vulnerable populations.
This decision was not made lightly. It affects clients, Arisa staff, and communities served for decades. Despite Arisa’s strong efforts to communicate to state officials the funding required to continue operating quality programs that meet state-mandated deliverables, the Invitation for Bid (IFB) solicitation included a significant annual reduction of approximately $4.4M in total funding and did not address the core issues raised. These issues include insufficient rates, lack of code parity for CMHCs, adjustments for inflation and population growth, and the ongoing workforce shortage driven by wage inflation. It is simply not possible to recruit and retain a behavioral health workforce without allowing for even a modest increase in compensation in response to rising inflation.
When the current contract expires on June 30 of this year, Arisa will close some locations, and cease being the state contracted provider for mobile crisis, forensic restoration services, and services to incarcerated individuals. Thirteen outpatient clinics — which currently handle more than 70 percent of Arisa’s clients — will remain open and serve as hubs for services throughout the 41 counties Arisa currently serves. Arisa will actively engage with clients whose services are tied to CMHC funding to ensure they are aware of these changes. Once DHS announces the new CMHC providers for each region, Arisa will work closely with them to support a smooth transition and help clients maintain access to care.
“No matter how the landscape shifts, our promise to the citizens of Arkansas does not. Arisa will continue to provide the highest quality of care to those who need it most, and we will only deliver services that reflect our strategic plan, our vision, and our values,” emphasizes Laura H. Tyler, LPC, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Arisa Health. “This moment requires clarity and conviction, and we are choosing a path forward that protects our mission, our team, our communities, and the clients we serve.”
Dr. Jenkins was officially hired on September 10th, 1973, as Clinical Director and was the 4th employee of Ozark Guidance. During his distinguished career, Dr. Jenkins served as the Chief Medical Officer for Ozark Guidance and worked closely with Dr. David L. Williams, the long-time CEO of the organization. Together, they built a solid foundation that has been instrumental in shaping Arisa Health into the respected and leading mental health organization it is today. In 2023, the Center for Children and Families building at Arisa Health’s headquarters campus was rededicated and renamed in honor of Dr. Jenkins.
