HB 2645 would authorize continuation of Trilogy Integrated Resources’ online
network of services, providing a one-stop hub of resources for Floridians in need
State Rep. David Santiago (R-Deltona) today announced that he has requested funding for Trilogy Integrated Resources’ Network of Care Behavioral Health site to provide comprehensive resources to Florida families who are struggling with mental health and substance use issues.
The web-based portal includes a database of local programs and services, quick access to local emergency and crisis intervention programs, as well as a library of more than 30,000 articles, fact sheets and interactive tools.
“Network of Care is a great resource in providing individuals and their families the assistance and support they need to overcome mental health and substance use issues that, unfortunately, are hurting so many Floridians,” said Rep. Santiago. “It is my sincere hope that by dedicating more resources to the website, we can connect Floridians with the services they need in real time and help address the mental health and substance use problems that are destroying families.”
HB 2645 would authorize $262,650 in the 2019-2020 budget for the Florida Department of Children and Families to fund the continuation of Florida’s Network of Care website. HB 2645 was passed by the House Health Care Appropriations Subcommittee earlier today.
The portal, which was developed and launched last year as a result of legislation by Rep. Santiago, is part of the national Network of Care that has more than 700 customized, community-based websites in 30 states.
Additionally, Rep. David Smith (R-Winter Springs) has filed similar legislation, HB 3271, authorizing $135,000 for the Florida Department of Veteran Affairs to expand Florida’s Network of Care to veterans, military service members and their families. The portal would provide information about local, state and federal military programs and services, online messaging boards and support groups, employment databases for returning service members, and articles, fact sheets and interactive tools on relevant issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI).
“It’s extremely important that we do everything we can to help veterans, service members and their families with the assistance they need,” said Rep. Smith, who is also a veteran and highly-decorated U.S. Marine Corps Colonel (Ret.). “Whether they need help finding a job or treatment for PTSD, this network would provide access to comprehensive services and information all in one place.”
During the past decade, Trilogy’s Network of Care has served more than 30 million people nationwide through its online offerings, which are replicated and custom-designed for any state. It was recommended to all states by former President George W. Bush’s 2003 New Freedom Commission on Mental Health and is considered a cost-effective, easy-to-use gateway for connecting people to services in their communities.
Sen. Joe Gruters (R-Sarasota) is filing companion bills to HB 2645 and HB 3271 in the Senate to fund both the behavioral health network and the veteran services network.
For more information visit www.myfloridahouse.gov or www.flsenate.gov.