Healthcare technology and data solutions provider NextGen Healthcare and Mental Health Corporations of America (mhca) have entered a partnership to establish a new behavioural health Centre of Innovation (COi). 

The new centre, set to formally launch on 15 August, is aimed at enhancing behavioural health care delivery and education for industry leaders. 

It will serve as a hub for promoting best practices and providing educational resources to elevate the standards of care across the US.  

NextGen Healthcare stated that this initiative comes at a time when behavioural health teams face challenges due to shifting business models and a shortage of professionals in the field. 

The collaboration between mhca, a national association dedicated to supporting behavioural healthcare organisations since 1984, and NextGen Healthcare seeks to address these challenges.  

They aim to create an 'open-source playbook' of best practices and establish a forum for industry leaders to share ideas and solutions. 

The COi will focus on creating purpose-driven disruptions in some of the key areas, such as data infrastructure alignment, whole-person care models, alternative payment models, and population health improvement.  

NextGen Healthcare CEO David Sides said: “As the industry faces unprecedented shifts and growing demands, we are honoured to collaborate with mhca to launch a Centre of Innovation that will position behavioural health organisations for long-term success. 

“This initiative underscores NextGen Healthcare’s commitment to fostering innovative solutions and building alliances that drive the future of integrated healthcare.” 

Members will have the opportunity to meet both virtually and in-person to discuss these topics, learn from one another, and connect with like-minded peers from integrated care organisations. 

The membership of the COi will include Federally Qualified Health Centres (FQHCs), Certified Community Behavioural Health Clinics (CCBHCs), and health centre programme look-alikes, as well as community organisations. 

It will also offer exclusive access to mhca members.  

mhca president and CEO Dale Shreve said: “Founded on the principle of collaboration, mhca is committed to addressing critical issues affecting behavioural health professionals. 

“We are thrilled to work with NextGen Healthcare to create a Centre of Innovation. Together, we are poised to make significant strides in improving care delivery and outcomes.”