NEW CASTLE (April 25, 2019) – The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) today announced that Delaware is one of five states selected to partner with the national nonprofit Shatterproof in the development of a new pilot rating system designed to measure quality in addiction treatment programs. Delaware was selected due to the work the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) has undertaken as part of the Substance Use Treatment and Recovery Transformation Initiative (START), which was launched in October 2018.

Under the START Initiative, DSAMH is currently tracking quality and clinical measures for addiction treatment across the state and then sharing that information with providers to help them improve their services. The partnership with Shatterproof, which was formed in 2012 to end the devastation addiction causes families, will enhance these efforts by providing a common set of measures for providers to benchmark themselves against, not just in Delaware but across the United States. The Shatterproof Rating System will also allow those seeking treatment for themselves or a loved one to see overall ratings via a free, public website increasing the transparency of the entire system.

“We are committed to doing everything we can to improve the quality of care for those suffering from addiction,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, who chairs the Behavioral Health Consortium. “This partnership with Shatterproof is another leap forward for the START Initiative and will help ensure that Delawareans have a quality treatment system that works for them when they need it most.”

“The START Initiative was one of the first steps forward in embracing the recommendations of the Johns Hopkins report to strengthen the treatment system in our state,” said DHSS Secretary Dr. Kara Odom Walker, a board-certified family physician. “Being selected by Shatterproof to participate in this pilot program will further the goal of the START Initiative to offer care that is high-quality, comprehensive, coordinated, evidence-based, and person-centered.”

The Shatterproof Rating System will be piloted in select states over two years. The three other participating states that have been announced are Louisiana, Massachusetts and New York. The pilot will apply public rating system best practices to the addiction treatment field by measuring the evidence-based elements of care delivery shown to improve patient outcomes. This information will be gathered from three sources: insurance claims, provider surveys, and consumer experience. The roughly $5 million pilot is funded by a coalition of Shatterproof’s stakeholders and none of the treatment programs in the rating system, or pilot states, will pay any cost or provide funding.

“This pilot dovetails perfectly with the work that we are engaged in and is only going to amplify our efforts,” said DSAMH Director Elizabeth Romero. “Our providers have been and will continue to be essential partners in this effort to improve Delaware’s treatment system.”

Providers were briefed on the Shatterproof Rating System and the pilot program at a meeting in April. The rating system will give treatment programs the opportunity to benchmark themselves against their peers throughout the state, target their quality improvement efforts, and offer transparency to patients seeking treatment.

Upon successful completion of the two-year pilot, the system will continue in the pilot states and a nationwide rollout will eventually establish the Shatterproof Rating System as the national standard for measuring the quality of behavioral health treatment.

“Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease that can be treated with the same effectiveness as other illnesses when using evidence-based best practices,” said Gary Mendell, Founder and CEO of Shatterproof. “Tragically, though, the quality of care varies widely among addiction treatment programs, and it’s difficult for individuals looking for care to identify high-quality programs. It is time that a standard be set across all addiction treatment, and that the entire system aligns behind evidence-based care.”

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction in Delaware, call DHSS’ 24/7 Crisis Hotline to be connected to treatment and recovery options. In New Castle County, call 1-800-652-2929. Or in Kent and Sussex counties, call 1-800-345-6785. To search online for treatment and recovery services in Delaware or nearby states, visit www.HelpIsHereDE.com.

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The Department of Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of life of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

Recommendations focus on systemic changes and expanding treatment options

New Castle, Del. – On Thursday, Lt. Governor Hall-Long joined members of Delaware’s Behavioral Health Consortium, community advocates, and elected officials to accept recommendations from The Pew Charitable Trusts aimed at reforming Delaware’s addiction treatment system. Pew Charitable Trusts has been working in partnership with the Behavioral Health Consortium, chaired by Lt. Governor Hall-Long, to reshape Delaware’s behavioral health treatment system for those struggling with addiction to opioids. Delaware is one of only two states nationwide to partner with Pew over the last year.

“Addressing Delaware’s opioid use disorder is a major step in making our state healthier and stronger,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long. “I’ve said all along that it is going to take all hands on deck in order to make an impact and begin saving lives. This report lays out a comprehensive set of specific steps Delaware can take to create a behavioral health system that works for everyone. I want to thank the Pew Charitable Trusts for partnering with the Behavioral Health Consortium to help us identify ways we can better deliver addiction treatment services for all Delawareans.”

Pew began work with the Behavioral Health Consortium in July of last year to help combat the opioid crisis as Delaware saw overdose deaths increase from 345 to 400 in 2018. Pew conducted a comprehensive needs assessment of Delaware’s treatment system by conducting interviews with state agency leaders, elected officials, and key stakeholders in order to identify gaps and develop strategic solutions and policies to create a more unified statewide continuum of care for those in need.

“Delaware has made great strides in addressing the opioid crisis, a complicated public health problem that demands multifaceted solutions,” said Beth Connolly, director of The Pew Charitable Trusts’ substance use prevention and treatment initiative. “It’s a problem that also requires commitment and collaboration from state leaders to get more Delawareans the evidence-based treatment they need. We are pleased to help further this crucial work in partnership with the Behavioral Health Consortium, Lt. Gov. Hall-Long, and the Delaware General Assembly.”

The final report contains eight recommendations which are focused on the four key components of an effective treatment system; Treatment system transformation that will allow individuals the appropriate treatment and access to quality care; coverage and reimbursement so that they can access care; a substance use disorder workforce that can address treatment needs; and underserved populations and expansion of medically assisted treatment in our Corrections system.  

“The recommendations confirm the path we are on in terms of strengthening our public treatment system across the state,” said Elizabeth Romero, director of the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health in the Department of Health and Social Services. “Pew Charitable Trusts has provided us with important insights into identifying the gaps we have in the treatment system, our workforce needs, and issues with coverage and reimbursement. We appreciate the partnership and leadership of Pew, the Behavioral Health Consortium and the Lt. Governor.”

The full report and recommendations can be viewed HERE

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DOVER, Del – This Census Day, April 1, marked the start of the countdown to the 2020 U.S. Census. The Census is the once-a-decade population and housing count, and an accurate census count is critically important to Delaware in multiple ways:

• The results of the Census determine how many representatives each state gets in Congress and are used to draw Congressional and state legislative districts
• Federal agencies use the census results to distribute more than $675 billion in funds each year
• Communities rely on census statistics to plan for a variety of needs including new roads, schools, libraries and emergency services
• Businesses use census data to determine where to locate

Delaware loses more than $2,000 in federal funds each year for every person left uncounted by the Census. That gap amounts to approximately $10 million lost annually that could have been used to support Delaware services and communities.

Earlier this year, Governor John Carney established the Complete Count Commission, chaired by Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, to assist with the 2020 Census. As recommended by the U.S. Census Bureau, State Complete Count Commissions will help raise awareness and encourage full participation from Delawareans and make sure everyone is counted.

“The 2020 census begins exactly one year from today, and the Complete Count Commission is committed to counting each and every single Delawarean,” said Lt. Governor Hall-Long. “Our libraries are playing a critical role in helping us achieve a 100% success rate by providing the resources to count every one of our residents in each county, city, and town to ensure that Delaware receives the resources we need, and deserve.”

For the first time, the Census Bureau is allowing all households to submit their 2020 census responses online. Those unsure of how to complete the census online can visit their local Delaware public library to:

• Use free wifi at any of Delaware’s 33 public libraries
• Get answers to questions
• Get assistance filling out forms

“We are so excited to partner with Delaware libraries for the 2020 Census,” said Devon Reed, Partnership Specialist with the U.S. Census Bureau. “With the digital nature of this decade’s Census – whether it’s applying for census jobs, working as census employees in local neighborhoods, or completing the Census on April 1, 2020 – all 33 libraries throughout the state will play a pivotal role in the success of the 2020 Census count. Making our libraries a one stop shop for all things Census gets us that much closer to Delaware’s most complete and accurate decennial count yet!”

“Delaware Libraries are a key part of the social infrastructure, and are standing by to assist and help ensure that every Delawarean is counted and receives all of the services that they need to achieve their full potential,” said Dr. Annie Norman, State Librarian.

PHOTO CAPTION: Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, center, marked Census Day on April 1 at the Dover Public Library with, from left to right, Margie Cyr, director of the Dover Library; Devon Reed, Partnership Specialist with the U.S. Census Bureau; Dr. Annie Norman, State Librarian; Fred Neil, Dover City Councilman; and Dr. Courtney Stewart, Deputy Secretary of State.

Two of Delaware’s statewide elected officials who have also served as healthcare professionals urge support of federal legislation that would expand eligibility for a program that offers financial stability to individuals with disabilities.

“Less than one year ago, Delaware took the positive step of launching an ABLE program, known as DEPENDABLE, which allows individuals with disabilities to create savings plans without jeopardizing other important government benefits. Savings in an ABLE account can be used for medical services not covered by insurance, transportation, housing – things that can drastically improve a person’s quality of life. According to the CDC, Delawareans spend $1.2 billion in disability-related healthcare expenditures alone. Financial wellbeing is an important component of overall personal health, and recognizing the economic disadvantages of those who have disabilities helps us to create a more stable path towards wellness.

By passing the ABLE Age Adjustment Act (S. 651), the ability to save would expand from individuals who acquired a disability before age 26, to those whose disabilities began before age 46. This would allow the program to help so many more Delaware residents, including service members and veterans. We urge Congress to help ensure our family members, friends, and neighbors can have a financially stable future by expanding eligibility for this important program.”

The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) program allows for the creation of tax-advantaged savings accounts for individuals with disabilities without compromising eligibility for federal benefits such as Medicaid and Social Security. Delaware’s ABLE plan was first facilitated by bipartisan HB60 and Primary Sponsor Rep. Melanie George Smith. Additional Sponsors included Senate Members Henry, Cloutier, Peterson, McDowell, and Lavelle as well as Reps. Paradee, Heffernan, Ramone, and Miro.

DEPENDABLE is administered by the Office of the State Treasurer.
Learn more about Delaware’s ABLE Plan by visiting ABLE.delaware.gov.

Six Delaware organizations receive recognitions for motivating change and elevating the health and well-being of their communities.

DOVER, Del. (March 18, 2019)— Delaware Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long just announced the selection of the first six honorees in the newly established Lt. Governor’s Challenge—the next evolution of Delaware’s mission to guide residents on a path to healthier living. The inaugural award honorees were hand-selected by the Lieutenant Governor and the Lt. Governor’s Challenge review committee, which made its selection based on the ways each organization’s initiative advances measurable policy, systems and environmental change strategies focused on improving the health and wellbeing of members of its group and other communities served.

“In every way, these six organizations and the initiatives they put in place embody the heart, soul and vision of the Lt. Governor’s Challenge,” said Lieutenant Governor Bethany Hall-Long. “The champions of these initiatives have demonstrated their dedication to developing programs and presenting opportunities to help others lead stronger, healthier lives. Some have done this by breaking down barriers of poverty to advance equality of care, others have provided resources to support smoking cessation or making behavioral changes that promote a lifetime of healthier habits. Equally as important is the fact that these award-winning programs are helping to motivate better health practices that extend beyond the people within the organizations that started them—among their spouses, children and other family members. There is no telling where and how far their influence can reach and the impact it can make on the health of our state.”

With the Lt. Governor’s Challenge, Lieutenant Governor Hall-Long is building on Governor Carney’s achievements in inspiring individuals to take the first steps toward leading healthier lifestyles. The Lt. Governor’s Challenge, focusing on the power of community when it comes to encouraging and implementing changes that can improve quality of life for Delawareans, was designed to mobilize everyone on a journey of health and well-being. The program motivates and supports groups and individuals, as well as recognizes communities that take action — together — in order to make the healthy choice and the easy choice for their members.

Lieutenant Governor Hall-Long made personal phone calls to inform each of the following organizations that they had been selected to be recognized with the first Lt. Governor’s Challenge awards. These honorees will be also be recognized in May during the Lt. Governor’s 1^st annual honoree celebration event.

IMPACT Delaware Tobacco Prevention Coalition

• Area of focus: Chronic Disease Management and Prevention
• Community category: Community with a Shared Interest
• Program overview: Since being formed, the coalition has helped raise awareness, educated people on the dangers of tobacco, developed and implemented programs, and measured and analyzed data to evaluate the effectiveness of its efforts. The coalition continues to develop statewide plans with goals and objectives to address tobacco prevention issues including prevent youth initiation, reduce exposure to secondhand smoke, and provide cessation resources.

Children in Nature

• Area of focus: Healthy Living
• Community category: Community with a Shared Interest
• Program overview: Program supports children and families in spending more time outdoors by increasing opportunities for children to participate in outdoor experiences, promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting better access to green space, and encouraging environmental literacy.

Perdue (FIT by Collaboration) with the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension

• Area of focus: Healthy Living
• Community category: Workplace
• Program overview: With a strong commitment and dedication to teamwork, Perdue Farms has kept its employees’ growth, safety and well-being at the forefront of its business. Partnering with the University of Delaware’s Cooperative Extension Program, Perdue Farms implemented a FIT program—which includes healthy fundraisers to promote activity clubs, worksite farmer’s markets, integration of physical activity clubs, health and productivity meetings, and worksite wellness committees—to help improve employee health within its Delaware locations.

Delaware Technical and Community College: Mindfulness Summit

• Area of focus: Emotional Well-being
• Community category: School
• Program overview: The Mindfulness Summit, held in October 2018, offered a community awareness event designed to teach, inform, and inspire those who want to learn more about the practice of mindfulness and how to incorporate it into their personal and professional lives. The summit included breakout sessions on mindfulness and its growing role in healthcare, mental health, athletics, education and the workplace.

Blind Vendors Committee: Healthy Vending Initiative

• Area of focus: Healthy Living
• Community category: Workplace
• Program overview: The Delaware Division of the Visually Impaired (DVI) partnered with the Blind Vendors Committee within the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) to ensure healthier vending options are available in state buildings for state employees. DVI implemented a new policy to ensure that all vending machines be equally split, with 50% of the machines being healthier snack alternatives, and to ensure via taste-tests that the healthy options placed in the machines are preferred by employees.

Colonial District 1^st Elementary Wellness Center – Eisenberg Elementary School

• Area of focus: Chronic Disease Management
• Community category: Schools
• Program overview: The Eisenberg Elementary School in New Castle officially opened its Wellness Center in April 2018 and is fully staffed and equipped for use. It provides Eisenberg students, most of whom are low-income children of color, with access to healthcare and behavioral and social services, right in their school. The center also allows parents to video-call in to appointments, and accepts those with and without insurance.

A key dynamic of the Lt. Governor’s Challenge is a peer nomination mechanism that allows community members an opportunity to be drivers of change in their own families, neighborhoods, workplaces, faith organizations/institutions, communities or schools. Nominations for the Spring 2019 Lt. Governor’s Challenge awards are being accepted until March 31 at LtGovernorsChallenge.org.

“Whether you are nominating yourself or a group you find deserving of recognition, by sharing your nominees’ stories and outcomes, you motivate them to continue and grow their programs,” said Lieutenant Governor Hall-Long. “Every nomination encourages your fellow Delawareans to take a look at how they, too, can take steps toward healthier living! Through peer nominations and celebrations of honorees, we expect the Lt. Governor’s Challenge 2.0 to have a far-reaching, long-lasting ripple effect that we are already seeing take hold.”

Additional information on the Lt. Governor’s Challenge—including online nomination forms—is available at LtGovernorsChallenge.org. Updates and information are also available on social media

Facebook (@LtGovernorDE); Twitter (@LTGovHall_Long); Instagram (@LtGovBethany)

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