Committed to Excellence in Whole Person Care for the IDD/MI Population

Written by our Annual Conference Partner Meridian Health Services 
In 2015 the Connxxions Program at Meridian Health Services became the first outpatient mental health program to receive accreditation with the NADD IDD/MI Dual Diagnosis Accreditation Program.  The accreditation program, which was developed in association with the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services (NASDDDS), was developed to improve the quality and effectiveness of services provided to individuals with a dual diagnosis (IDD/MI).  The group developed 18 areas of competency based professional standards that promote ongoing professional and program development.  

​Meridian Health Services achieved accreditation in 2015 and has been through two reviews, each time the Connxxions program has achieved the highest level of accreditation status and during the last review they received the highest possible score in 15 of the 16 areas of their review.  For Meridian accreditation displays a commitment to providing quality services for individuals with a dual diagnosis (IDD/MI).  The Connxxions program focuses on developing an individual’s ability to recognize when a mental health issue is occurring or about to occur. The goal is that ultimately the individual will better their coping skills, improve their communication and learn through their experiences. 
 
Our Skills Builders assist individuals to create a mental health treatment plans based on an assessment of daily skills functioning.  Our staff can work alongside other providers such as waiver case managers, day programs and behavioral consultants and our services are designed to enhance and support the work these other professionals and agencies are providing. Additionally, staff can connect people to primary care, dental services, psychiatry and several other programs that can lead to better “whole person” health.
 
If you have questions, concerns or are interested in learning more about Connxxions and “whole person” health services with Meridian Health Services please reach out to Jessica Hamlyn, LCSW, NADD-CC, Director of Connxxions (IDD/MI) Services at [email protected] or 765-254-5144.