As Executive Director and CEO of Philhaven—a non-profit behavioral healthcare organization offering services for children, adolescents, adults and older adults in south central PA—Phil Hess recognizes the benefits of quality care. The activities which the NavWell initiative contributes towards improving mental wellness of the community is what led Phil to join the effort. Today, he serves as a member on the NavWell Advisory Council.
As both CEO and Executive Director, Phil often sees a need for an initiative such as NavWell during his day-to-day work, saying, “‘How do I access care?’ is one question that I most frequently receive from the community.” Without an answer, Phil realizes the possibilities NavWell has to provide the community with access to proper mental and behavioral health care. With reliable assessment tools in place, NavWell can exchange information between physical, behavioral, and social service providers giving accurate and efficient access to care.
NavWell is completely customized to address the gaps in integrated health care by informing all systems involved in the care or a child or family. Bringing together an accurate assessment and access to care creates a platform which the community will benefit from.
“NavWell will improve access to care, information about services in our community, and improved coordination and communication between providers,” Phil explains . “It should improve understanding and access to mental health services. I may also identify gaps in services and system issues that create barriers to care.”
Primary care providers and specialists also benefit from NavWell with an improved understanding and access to the mental health provider system. NavWell’s scientifically backed assessment tools have been requested by physical health providers to assist in understanding and treating behavioral health problems for a long time now.
NavWell creates a space for the community to work together in creating better access to complete coordinated care.
To learn more about the NavWell initiative, please visit lohf.org/navwell.
