TULSA, Okla. — This week, mental health service providers in Green Country, like GRAND Mental Health, were shocked to receive abrupt contract termination notices from the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES). This sudden change has left providers puzzled and anxious, with many questions still lingering.
Josh Cantwell, CEO of GRAND Mental Health, which serves thousands in Oklahoma, expressed his surprise. “We had no prior communication about this. The email we received on April 10 felt completely unexpected,” he shared.
Other providers, such as CREOKS and Family & Children’s Services, received the same notice, set to take effect on May 10. Cantwell voiced concerns about not knowing whether the termination was real or a mistake.
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) acknowledged that the notice might have been sent incorrectly. However, OMES has yet to clarify. “We’ve been in touch with the Department of Mental Health, and they’ve been clear about the possibility of an error,” Cantwell said. “But we’re still awaiting confirmation from OMES. Our main concern is ensuring that services continue uninterrupted.”
OMES issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to accountability and collaboration. They aim to uphold transparency in their contract processes.
Allie Friesen, the commissioner of ODMHSAS, also reassured the community that they are working to resolve the confusion. She mentioned, “Our priority is to protect access to care for Oklahomans who rely on these services. We are actively collaborating with OMES and our partners to implement measures that ensure continuity of care.”
House Majority Leader Mark Lawson shared his optimism regarding the situation, suggesting it may simply be a matter of miscommunication. “I hope this all stems from some mix-up, and we can move forward without disrupting mental health services in the Tulsa area,” he said.
CREOKS affirmed their commitment to serve the community, stating, “We will continue to provide high-quality care to Oklahomans in need. We’re in regular contact with the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and are confident in finding a way forward.”
Cantwell highlighted the critical nature of mental health services. “Without treatment, people could suffer dire consequences, including overdoses and deteriorating mental health,” he stressed. Despite the uncertainty, he assured the public that GRAND Mental Health is committed to its mission and will continue operations as normal while seeking clear guidance.
This situation highlights the importance of mental health services during challenging times. As 2023 statistics show a rising demand for mental health care across the nation, the pressure on providers increases. A recent survey indicated that 41% of adults reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, a significant rise due to pandemic-related stressors.
The community is watching closely as these issues unfold, hopeful for swift resolution and assurance that critical mental health services remain intact.
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