In a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the critical role of community health services in addressing substance use disorders, particularly in light of new funding from the opioid settlement grant. Representatives from Creek Valley Health Clinic highlighted their ongoing efforts to expand behavioral health services and improve patient care in Colorado City and surrounding areas.

Creek Valley's CEO expressed gratitude for being awarded a portion of the fiscal year 2025 opioid settlement grant, emphasizing its potential impact on the community. The clinic, established in 2018 and designated as a federally qualified health center, serves approximately 3,500 patients annually, providing integrated medical, behavioral health, and dental services.

The meeting revealed that Creek Valley has recently expanded its facilities to enhance its behavioral health program, which has nearly doubled in size since the grant application. This includes the addition of a part-time clinical psychologist with extensive experience in treating severe mental illnesses and substance use disorders. In 2023, the clinic reported that 875 patients received counseling or integrated behavioral therapy, with plans to increase this number by 5-15% over the next three years.

A key focus of the clinic's initiatives is the implementation of the collaborative care model, designed to connect primary care services with psychiatric support. This model aims to improve access to mental health resources for patients, particularly those dealing with substance use disorders.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of community health initiatives in combating the opioid crisis and supporting individuals in recovery, with Creek Valley Health Clinic positioned as a vital resource in the region.