Advisory groups and committees focus on key issues like responding to the opioid crisis, making sure treatment is fair for everyone, developing the workforce, and including people's real-life experiences in the decision-making process.
There are over a dozen council and committees currently providing guidance.
- Behavioral Health Services Advisory Council (BHSAC) - Advises the agency and the Office of Mental Health (OMH) on improving behavioral health services in New York.
- Opioid Settlement Fund Advisory Board (OSFAB) - Recommends the allocation of funds from New York's opioid trials.
- Inter-Agency Task Force on Overdose Prevention - Formed by Governor Hochul to address rising opioid overdose rates.
- Lived Experience Advisory Panel - Provides insights from individuals with lived experience to inform agency policy and funding priorities.
- Medical Advisory Board - Advises on scientific topics and clinical innovations in addiction medicine.
- Nurse Advisory Panel (NAP) - Consists of addiction nursing experts who advise on initiatives in New York State.
- Committee for Treatment Equity - Examines the substance use disorder system.
- Workforce Development Advisory Committee - Focuses on workforce development and retention in OASAS service settings.
Groups collaborate to offer insights that improve the accessibility and effectiveness of substance use disorder and mental health treatment.
Professionals from nursing and addiction medicine, alongside individuals with lived experience, contribute to a more comprehensive and equitable behavioral health system.
This collective effort addresses challenges in behavioral health, working toward better outcomes for people seeking support and services.