Number of BH professionals in Nebraska doesn't match demand

Abstract

Behavioral health needs in Nebraska have increased over the past few years. Experts say a number of reasons have added to that need, KMTV News Now Omaha reported Jan. 3. “One being there's a greater awareness of mental health over the past five years or so and I think we're doing a better job of talking about it and normalizing it,” said Marley Doyle, director of the University of Nebraska Medical Center's (UNMC's) Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska. “The other reason is pandemic‐related. I think we've seen an increase of substance use. We've seen an increase of anxiety and depression rates.” The number of behavioral health professionals has also increased over the past few years, but not at the same rate as the demand. An aging workforce and retention are creating barriers to keeping up with the demand. The issue is more evident in rural areas of the state. Currently, 29 of Nebraska's 93 counties do not have a behavioral health provider of any kind. Eighty‐eight of the 93 counties are designated as behavioral health shortage areas. UNMC's Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska is working to fix the gap between demand and professionals. The program created satellite centers in more rural areas, like the Kearney area and the state's panhandle, to support students focused on mental health care. With recruitment, continued education and mentorship, the program is on the right track, Doyle said. But, she adds, the problem is not fixed yet. Doyle said with time and implementation they can get there.