OMHSAS Message to Behavioral Health Stakeholders

OMHSAS Message to Behavioral Health Stakeholders

Dear Department of Human Services Dear Behavioral Health Stakeholders, 

Behavioral health services, both mental health and substance use services, are considered essential and life sustaining services. As such, those entities that support, authorize and/or provide behavioral health services are exempt from the Governor’s directive asking for the closure of all non-essential businesses. Behavioral health services and supports are critical to the health and wellness of our communities and providers are expected to continue offering those services through the COVID-19 crisis period.

Thank you all for your support and continued dedication to providing these life sustaining services to the citizens in Pennsylvania.  

Sincerely, 

Valerie J. Vicari 

Valerie J. Vicari | Acting Deputy Secretary
Department of Human Services | Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services