FY 2020 annual report

A Y E A R L I K E N O O T H E R 7 While most of the NJAMHAA staff has been telecommuting, they remained readily available, practically around the clock in the early weeks of the pandemic, to obtain answers to members’ many questions and advocate for solutions to challenges members have been encountering. NJAMHAA also made arrangements for conference calls with the Department of Human Services (DHS) and Department of Health, and shared updates gained from these discussions and correspondence with state representatives, along with a wealth of other information and resources in the triweekly Newswire, through other e-mails, on the website and on social media. Leadership in Advocacy and Impact during the COVID-19 Pandemic Two member surveys about the impact of and challenges imposed by the coronavirus crisis were developed. Respondents provided compelling details about programs being closed and other anticipated closures, significant shortages of staff and additional resources needed for providing services through telehealth and for obtaining PPE and supplies and services for increased sanitization, as well as physical plant reconfigurations to accommodate social distancing. A third survey was conducted in collaboration with Rutgers School of Health Professions. NJAMHAA encouraged members to participate in this survey and several undertaken by the National Council for Behavioral Health and the National Association of County Behavioral Health and Developmental Disability Directors. NJAMHAA also conducted surveys on COVID-19 testing in March and May to quantify the actual and estimated impact on revenues, staffing, and program reductions and closures. In April, another survey was conducted to gauge expenses being incurred and the access providers have to testing in order to ensure the safety of both clients and staff, particularly as they prepare for new admissions and a return to their facilities. I have personally and professionally benefited from NJAMHAA’s advocacy and professional development services and my agency has greatly benefited from their legislative support. NJAMHAA’s commitment to its members is without parallel! – Galindo “Glenn” King, MHS, LCADC Executive Director Freedom House, Inc.