We are excited to announce that Dr. David Albert, the current Director of the Division of Mental Health, will lead the newly formed Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery. Rafael Rivera, the interim head of the Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery, will serve as the assistant director of the combined department.
As previously shared, efforts to integrate the Divisions of Mental Health and Substance Use Prevention and Recovery have been underway, with the aim of reducing administrative burdens and enhancing access to services for individuals who need support in both areas. Under Governor Pritzker’s executive order, the consolidation is set to take effect in July, unless state legislators vote against it.
All employees from both DMH and SUPR will be part of the new division, according to IDHS.
“This integration will improve outcomes for residents of Illinois, especially those with complex needs,” said IDHS Secretary Dulce Quintero in a statement. “It will enhance access to treatment and provide better quality of care.