Promoting the Integration of Primary and Behavioral Health Care: Collaborative Care Model

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has announced a forecasted funding opportunity for the "Promoting the Integration of Primary and Behavioral Health Care: Collaborative Care Model" grant program. This initiative aims to support the implementation of the Collaborative Care Model (CoCM), an evidence-based approach designed to integrate mental health and substance use treatment within primary care settings. The goal of the program is to enhance access to behavioral health services by embedding structured psychiatric and psychological support within primary care environments. The grant will provide funding to assist primary care teams in developing the necessary staffing and systems to implement CoCM. This model involves collaboration between a primary care provider, a care manager, a consulting psychiatrist, and other mental health professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care. Recipients of this funding will be expected to work with at least three primary care practices to establish and sustain the CoCM framework. The total estimated program funding for this opportunity is $5,096,249. Up to five awards are expected to be distributed, with no specified award ceiling. The minimum award amount is set at $0, which suggests that award amounts will be determined based on project needs and available funding. The grant does not require cost sharing or matching funds from recipients. Eligibility for this program is statutorily limited to states or appropriate state agencies. This means that non-governmental organizations, local entities, and private institutions are not eligible to apply. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to implement the CoCM within primary care settings and coordinate with multiple primary care practices. While the grant is currently in the forecast stage, the estimated posting date for the full announcement is April 1, 2025. Specific application due dates, award announcements, and project start dates have not yet been provided. Organizations interested in applying should monitor SAMHSA’s updates to ensure timely submission of applications. For further information, applicants may contact the Center for Mental Health Services at (240) 276-2135 or via email at PIPBHC@samhsa.hhs.gov.