Arisa Health to close clinics, exit state contracts

Arkansas behavioral health provider Arisa Health will close 26 outpatient clinics and step away from several state‐contracted services, including mobile crisis care and forensic restoration, as Talk Business & Politics, an Arkansas‐based news organization, reported earlier this month. The changes take effect June 30 when current contracts expire, and the nonprofit will not seek renewal. The closures will coincide with the elimination of about 65 positions. Arisa said 13 clinics — serving more than 70% of its clients — will remain open and operate as regional hubs across the 41 counties it covers. The organization cited unsustainable funding gaps as the reason for its decision. It said the latest contract cycle included a 4. 4 million annual funding reduction and did not address longstanding challenges such as low reimbursement rates, inflation, population growth and workforce shortages. Arisa, which has provided community mental health center (CMHC) services in the state for more than 55 years, said it has long relied on state and federal funding to serve uninsured and Medicaid populations. Despite efforts to maintain services, officials said the growing financial strain made continued participation in the contracts unworkable. Arisa Health will contact clients whose services are tied to CMHC funding to inform them of the changes. Once new CMHC providers are selected for each region, Arisa Health will work with them to support a smooth transition and help clients maintain access to care, officials stated.