Magellan Healthcare is your resource for suicide prevention information and tools

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/Prevent-Suicide for downloads, events and more.

Magellan Healthcare and Invo HealthCare announce value-based care collaboration focused on improved autism outcomes

According to the CDC, 1 in 54 [1] children is diagnosed with ASD, with some states reporting 1 in 32 [2] children receiving a diagnosis. Magellan Healthcare recently announced the launch of a pilot in collaboration with Invo HealthCare to define standards of care for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) undergoing applied behavior analysis (ABA) treatment.

The collaboration between Magellan and Invo is an innovative value-based care model intended to define standards for ABA treatment and measure progress against them. The model will help providers deliver better care, resulting in improved outcomes for children with ASD and those who care for them.

Visit here to read the press release.

Learn more about the link between Heart Health and Mental Health, including for women aged 65 years and older and working moms, and how healthcare professionals can take care of their own mental health during a pandemic while caring for others. Dr. Caroline Carney, MD, MSc, FAPM, CPHQ, Magellan Health and Magellan Rx chief medical officer, shares her knowledge and tips in the following three-part Pharmacy Times interview here.

Part 1 interview: Negative mental health outlook can lead to heart disease, causing concern during pandemic

Part 2 interview: Healthcare worker trauma stress from COVID-19 can cause poor health outcomes overall

Part 3 interview: Call your mom: Study links positive mental health, heart health in older women

Pilot leads to reduced aggressive behaviors in children and less stress in the family 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Magellan Healthcare collaborated with Neuromotion, Inc., the developer of Mightier, an in-home digital platform that empowers children to learn lifelong emotional skills through play, to make Mightier available to certain Magellan members with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a pilot program.

Read the press release on the results and the white paper on this landmark study to understand how digital tools can help children with ASD here.

Listen to Dr. Caroline Carney, Chief Medical Officer of Magellan Health and MRx and Scientific Advisory Board Member of Psych Hub, talk about how mental health impacts all facets of our healthcare system in a podcast with Marjorie Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of Psych Hub, and Patrick J. Kennedy, Co-founder of Psych Hub, here.

Pharmacy times talks Mental Health and Brain Health with Magellan's Dr. Caroline Carney 

Pharmacy Times recently interviewed Caroline Carney, MD, MSC, FAPM, CPHQ, Chief Medical Officer of Magellan Health and a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, in recognition of national brain awareness week. in the three-part series, Dr. Carney discusses:

• Issues related to the contemporary understanding of mental health and brain health and how they are treated and researched today
• How pharmacists can be the first to notice changes in patients' cognitive function
• How pharmacists and other medical professionals can boost their brain health and maintain a positive mindset while working with patients during the pandemic

Watch the videos here.

Foundations of a Comprehensive Community Healthcare System serving youth

Magellan's System of Care approach addresses the unique needs of each individual and embraces young people and their families as central to decision-making. We also focus on the development of collaborative structures through cross-system agreement with other child-serving systems, such as child welfare, juvenile justice and education, incorporating trauma-informed care.

In the second section of Magellan's updated clinical monograph, understanding and meeting the needs of children and adolescents at high risk: foundations of a model, learn more about the following evidence-based research that underpins our model of care for serving children, youth and their families:

• Child and adolescent interventions and treatments
• Evidence-informed psychosocial treatments
• Psychopharmacological treatment oversight and monitoring
• Family-driven, youth-guided components of care
• Culturally competent and trauma-informed approaches to care

We developed this monograph as a resource for providers, youth, families, policymakers and other advocates, and community stakeholders.

3 ways to give youth access to Behavioral Health Resources 

The pressures of the pandemic have taken a tough toll on mental health, with more youth and young adults seeking emergency care for mental health issues and suicidal ideation. as we enter year two of Covid‐19, a multifaceted approach is needed to ease the mental health impact of the pandemic on children, teens and young adults.

How can Health Professionals better enable youth to get needed behavioral health resources before they require emergency care?

Read the Mental Health Weekly article, reducing the rise in adolescent suicide during Covid‐19, here. in the article, Dr. Caroline Carney, MD, MSC, FAMP, CPHQ, Chief Medical Officer, Magellan Health and Magellan Rx Management, shares three approaches:

• Perform suicide screenings during pediatric visits the pandemic severely disrupted the lives of children and teens, upending school and home routines and affecting time spent in activities and with friends. It's no wonder that Covid‐19 has adversely affected children's mental health. For providers, developing a multifaceted, highly collaborative approach to meeting adolescents' behavioral health needs is key to improving health outcomes and ensuring that kids receive the right care in the right locations.

Magellan and mightier recently completed a pilot study of a groundbreaking video game that teaches emotional regulation to children with autism.

Read the Parentology article, new study using video games to improve children’s mental health, in which Yagnesh Vadgama, BCBA, Magellan Health VP of Clinical Care Services Autism, shares feedback from parents about the pilot study.

Magellan and mightier believe that digital tools for children can:

• Increase access to care
• Improve outcomes
• Reduce healthcare costs

To learn more about our pilot project and recent collaboration with mightier to improve the lives of children with autism and other conditions, click here.

A Focus on Child and Adolescent Development

Social, community and clinical programs designed to be developmentally informed have historically been considered the optimal standard to serve the population of young people with mental, emotional and behavioral (meb) disorders.

In the first section of Magellan's updated clinical monograph, understanding and meeting the needs of children and adolescents at high risk: foundations of a model, we highlight the impact of various factors on brain development that can lead to meb disorders in young people. topics include:

• Children exposed to maltreatment and/or trauma
• Children with parents who have mental health/substance use disorders (suds)
• Children with absent/incarcerated parents
• Children with disruptive behaviors, impulse control issues and conduct disorders
• Children with anxiety, depression and/or substance use disorder

We developed this monograph to emphasize the evidence-based research that underpins our model of care for serving children, youth and their families, and to serve as a resource for providers, youth, families, policymakers and other advocates, and community stakeholders.

Magellan Healthcare and Mightier use Nimh Grant to research the impact of video games on childhood behavior disorders

Magellan Healthcare is collaborating with Mightier on a landmark study to understand how digital tools can help children with adhd, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder and other mental health disorders.

Magellan and Mightier recently concluded a pilot study on a groundbreaking video game that teaches emotional regulation to children with autism, which proved to reduce symptoms in children and improve family dynamics. here’s what parents and board certified behavior analysts (bcba) are saying:

• “He is excited to play every day. he asks every morning to play mightier first thing.” –mom of a 10-year-old boy
• “I have noticed the magnitude of maladaptive behaviors decreased and the client being better able to calm down enough to receive feedback in the moment.” –bcba
• "I am so thankful that my son is able to participate in this pilot. I have definitely seen positive behaviors with his participation.” –mom of a 6-year-old boy

Magellan and Mightier believe that digital tools for children can increase access to care, improve outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

Learn more here.

Health leaders, businesses, communities and government agencies have so many opportunities to work together to develop solutions that improve the health of our communities.

In a recent interview with Authority Magazine, Dr. Caroline Carney, MD, MSC, FAMP, CPHQ, Chief Medical Officer, Magellan Health and Magellan Rx Management, shared five changes that can improve the us healthcare system.

Read the article "Dr. Caroline Carney of Magellan Health: 5 things we must do to improve the us healthcare system," here where she shares her thoughts on:

1. Establishing payment parity between primary care, behavioral health and specialist visits
2. Scaling back the regulations that govern the ways we provide care
3. Encouraging atypical partnerships that promote value and analytic-driven, targeted interventions
4. Bringing consumers into the conversation around health policy and best practices
5. Creating a more patient-centric model for primary care and reimbursement

In the article, Dr. Carney also discusses concrete steps that individuals, businesses, communities and leaders can take to manifest change.

Visit our COVID-19 response website

_{Visits MagellanHealthcare.com/COVID-19 for videos, articles, links to virtual recovery meetings and more.} 

New resources available for Back-to-School and Telehealth

Tip sheet: Return to school during the pandemic
Parents and children can expect additional changes in the coming school year. State and local authorities continue to navigate the options, taking into account public health, state and local guidelines. We are in uncharted territory with the realities of an ever-changing pandemic. It is important to focus on helping your family adjust to new routines. Learn tips here to help children adapt and take care of your own mental health.

Blog post: Telehealth—Care and treatment wherever you are
Telehealth services have been available for years to help remove geographical and other boundaries for people in rural and medically underserved areas; however, use has been limited. Driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, including shelter-in-place orders, social distancing, and federal agencies mandating use for certain programs, telehealth has grown exponentially since March.

While companies like Teladoc and MD Live have been operating telehealth platforms for nearly two decades, many platforms are dedicated only to physical health. Magellan Healthcare has maintained a telehealth network for behavioral health since 2014. Learn how we help health plans, employers, members and providers here.

COVID-19 and racial and ethnic disparities may be combining to delay diagnosis and important early treatment for autism spectrum disorder in children. Read the Magellan Health Insights blog post, Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnosis in the Time of Coronavirus: A Conversation with Magellan’s Yagnesh Vadgama, here to learn:

• Why there have been marked differences in the rates in which Black and Hispanic children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder
• Why age matters in evaluation and diagnosis
• How COVID-19 is affecting the age at which children are being evaluated
• What can healthcare providers do to help ensure early, accurate diagnosis

What can parents do to help ensure a correct, early diagnosis if they have concerns

Magellan Health announced this week it has appointed Caroline Carney, MD, MSc, FAPM, CPHQ, as Chief Medical Officer of Magellan Health.

In this key leadership role, Dr. Carney will advance Magellan Health’s clinical mission and further position the company’s significant leadership capabilities in clinical engagement. She will also continue to serve as the chief medical officer of Magellan Rx Management, leading the development and implementation of innovative, integrated clinical programs for customers and members of Magellan’s pharmacy business segment.

We have a new video called Telehealth: Get care and treatment wherever you are, which explains:

How to schedule a telehealth visit

What to do once a telehealth visit is scheduled

How to get the most from telehealth

Watch the video here.

A focus on COVID-19 during May Mental Health Awareness Month

Find information at the following links and on our dedicated COVID-19 response page for support:

• AHIP one-pager featuring Magellan COVID-19 resources and services: "Supporting Americans' Mental Health Amid COVID-19" here
• Tip sheet: "COVID-19: Essential Workers: Safety at Work and Home" here

Blog post: "Stamp Out Stigma During May: Mental Health Awareness Month" here

The loss of normalcy: Coping with grief and uncertainty during COVID-19

Magellan launches Stay Home for MY LIFE virtual youth events

Magellan Healthcare is offering its Magellan Youth Leaders Inspiring Future Empowerment (MY LIFE) program virtually for youth ages 13-23 who have experience with Mental Health, substance use, juvenile justice and foster-care-related issues.

In response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Magellan Healthcare has transitioned its MY LIFE program to facilitate virtual participation by interested youth across the country no matter where they are located. Held every Thursday from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Eastern until stay at home orders are lifted, the weekly events feature nationally recognized inspirational speakers, uplifting entertainment, fun activities and information on a variety of topics important to youth.

Youth and young adults interested in Stay Home for MY LIFE can find more information and register at facebook.com/MYLIFEyouth.

Since 2008, Magellan’s MY LIFE program has been leading the way nationally for youth in behavioral health and foster care systems, allowing them to share their stories and support each other in their goals. Through regular meetings, special events, performances, social media, and local and national presentations, youth create positive change for themselves and others in their communities.

Find more information about the MY LIFE program here.

 

A new website with free downloadable information and resources to support BIPOC Mental Health – find it here

Check out the new and improved Magellan Healthcare eLearning Center, where you will find previous versions of this newsletter, webinars and learning opportunities, including for continuing education credits, health literacy materials and other resources!

Mark your calendar for upcoming events! Every Thursday from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m., Eastern, Stay Home for MY LIFE virtual youth festival Magellan's weekly MY LIFE virtual youth festival is an inspiring online event designed for youth and young adults who have experience with mental health, substance use, foster care and/or other challenges. Each week we feature inspirational speakers, uplifting entertainment and information related to recovery, wellness and empowerment. Learn more on the MY LIFE Facebook page Every Wednesday from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. eastern, Caregiver Support Group meetings - You're invited to our caregiver support group meetings.   These free groups provide a safe place for any caregiver, guardian, parent, grandparent, family member, etc. to talk through their struggles and successes, and to learn from one another. Join online, or by phone at: 1-646-558-8656 (toll free) (meeting ID 707 619 166) (password 181500) Explore Magellan Healthcare COVID-19 resources We continue to monitor developments around the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Visit our dedicated website, including information and resources for our communities, clients, members and providers, such as: A tip sheet on helping kids manage summer and fall during the COVID-19 pandemic here Access to a 24-hour crisis line, and crisis text line here Video on how to use telehealth here The Magellan Healthcare Recovery and Resiliency eLearning Center is your resource for training and educational information on peer support, recovery and resiliency, and a comprehensive listing of health topics. We offer these learning opportunities free of charge, in a convenient format for individuals who work in the healthcare field, families and anyone interested in the topics.

Mark your calendar for upcoming events!

Every Wednesday from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Eastern, Caregiver Support Group meetings
You’re invited to our Caregiver Support Group meetings. These free groups provide a safe place for any caregiver, guardian, parent, grandparent, family member, etc. to talk through their struggles and successes, and to learn from one another. We meet every Wednesday from 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Eastern.

• Join online, or by phone at: 1-646-558-8656 (toll free) (meeting ID 707 619 166)
• January newsletter - focus on how social determinants of health impact people and communities and how the Eight Dimensions of Wellness are a way to look holistically at those areas of our lives that impact our overall health and well-being, in context of social determinants of healthAccess 2020 eMpowered newsletters and webinar recordings (for CE credits)
• February webinar - provides additional information and training about how wellness-informed peer support can positively impact social determinants
• March newsletter - focus on how social inclusion is directly tied to recovery, personal wellness and strengthening resilience

We continue to monitor developments around the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Visit our dedicated website, including information and resources for our communities, clients, members and providers, such as:
Magellan Healthcare COVID-19 resources

• Tips for managing stress and anxiety, including financial resilience during COVID-19, working from home, addressing COVID-19 anxiety in healthcare workers, and more here
• Information on how to access virtual recovery meetings, including AA, NA, Al-Anon and Nar-Anon here
• Magellan health and wellness library, here, including health education and interactive tools, offered at no cost, in English and Spanish. Search for “coronavirus” for information.

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No-cost, on-demand learning opportunities

Check out Magellan’s on-demand webinars and micronars in our Recovery and Resiliency e-Learning Center. You can also surf through an archive of our previous presentations, e-newsletters, health literacy materials and other resources!

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Making a difference for our members and clients

For over 50 years, Magellan Healthcare has served the behavioral health needs of our members through innovative programs and services. While helping our members live happier, healthier and more independent lives, we've lowered our clients' costs.
Using our innovative digital solutions, 74% of our Pennsylvania members with moderate to severe anxiety reported 22% improvement in symptoms.

• Youth participating in our Wyoming High-Fidelity Wraparound program cost 74% less to treat than those in psychiatric residential treatment facilities.

Learn more about our results

Visit MagellanHealthcare.com/BehavioralHealthManagement. And while you’re there, find new information on our behavioral health solutions, services for children, and peer support and recovery and resiliency program.

Are we overdiagnosing autism?

Researchers say the changing criteria for autism may be resulting in an overdiagnosis of the condition. Read the Healthline article, "Are we overdiagnosing autism?, " featuring Yagnesh Vagdama, Vice President of Clinical Care Services - Autism at Magellan Health, where he shares his thoughts on the topic.

Read the article here.

Magellan releases model for serving high-risk children and adolescents on Nov. 21, during the national federation of families for children’s mental health annual conference, Magellan Healthcare will present its new, research-based model for the prevention and treatment of children and adolescents.
pat hunt, director of child and family resiliency services and part of the team that created the model, will present the approach that keeps youth and their families central to the decision-making process and addresses individuals’ needs, strengths, preferences and culture.

Magellan's model:

• Is developmentally appropriate, culturally competent and includes trauma-informed best practices.

Mental Health America introduces video featuring Magellan’s Integrated Health Home Initiative mental health america (mha) and itn productions recently selected magellan as the only managed care company to feature in a new, online program examining the current state of mental health in america, aiming to improve mental health services and provide a better understanding of mental health conditions to help identify them far sooner.

#b4stage4 is an in-depth, online program specifically aimed at those working to improve mental health across the nation. the news-style piece combines key industry interviews and news-style reports with sponsored editorial profiles of some of the leading organizations in the sector, including magellan.

Magellan highlights its integrated health home (ihh) initiative in iowa in its segment of the program, demonstrating the positive impact of the initiative from the perspective of a member and the ihh provider who has helped the member throughout the recovery process.

“Campaigns such as itn and mha’s #b4stage4 are essential to eliminating stigma and promoting hope,” said Jim Stringham, Senior Vice President, Magellan Healthcare, who is featured in the video along with Magellan Complete Care’s Chief Medical Officer Chuck Cutler. “Magellan is appreciative of the opportunity to be a part of this program, through sharing one of our initiatives that addresses whole person health and wellness—our integrated health home. we hope that this story will inspire others to continue their recovery journey.”

Opioid Use Disorder and Substance Use Disorder During Covid-19
A message from Jim Leonard, CEO, Magellan Behavioral Health of Pennsylvania, Inc.

As we move into the 2nd year of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, we have come to understand for several months that it is not just the virus that has created traumatic and lasting damage for our families, friends and communities. We are also unfortunately seeing an increase number of members confronted with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) due to the effects of the shutdown and the impact of social isolation on mental health. Read more Magellan hosted a provider town hall in December - Approximately 120 providers and local stakeholders attended a virtual town hall on Dec. 16.   Read more. Magellan Healthcare clinical model for high-risk children and adolescents - Magellan's evidence-based model for BH needs focuses on holistic treatment.  Read more Over 375 community and online resources on MagellanofPA.com - Magellan has added more than 150 SDoH and COVID-19 related resources to the webpage that offers adovacacy resources and services.  Read more Medical Assistance Transportation Resources are available - MATP resources are available to assist members with overcoming the SDoH barrier of lack of transportation to a medical appointment.  Read more   MY LIFE Pennsylvania virtual events are on the 3rd Tuesday of each month - These free virtual events for youth ages 13-23 are fun and interactive ways to offer mutual support while we're not able to meet in person.  Read more Lifeline Phone Program is helpful to members - As telehealth solutions become increasingly more popular and routine, it is important to remember that not all members have access to a phone.  Read more Community resources including food pantries, utility support and more - Our website offers local, state and national helpful resources.  Read more Important updates for providers - Provider Focus is updated frequently to include important local updates and information critical to your day-to-day operations.  You will find other updates on our website under"For Providers".