Invitation to Join the Member Advisory Council

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) chose APS Healthcare to manage some MaineCare mental health and substance use services. APS Healthcare is now looking for MaineCare members, or family of MaineCare members, to join our Member Advisory Council.

What does a Member Advisory Council do?

• Look at APS Healthcare paperwork, like newsletters and manuals, to see if they are clear and easy to read
• Advise APS Healthcare on ways to improve the quality of what we do

Who is on the Member Advisory Council?

About 16 people living throughout Maine. We are looking for people who use MaineCare substance abuse or mental health services. This includes:

• Adults who use mental health or substance abuse services paid for by MaineCare. (This can include those who used the services in the past 2 years)
• A youth who uses mental health services paid for by MaineCare
• Parents or guardians of children who use MaineCare mental health services. (This can include people who had MaineCare in the last 2 years)

The Member Advisory Council may decide to have other stakeholders (like an advocacy group or human services agency) join.

Will I be paid as a Member of the Council?

Yes. You would be paid $25 per meeting. You will also be paid for your transportation (50 ½ cents per mile) to get to meetings. These meetings will be held 4 times a year.

How are Members picked for the Council?

Contact the APS Healthcare Member Services Manager, Melanie Sachs, LCSW, or phone (1-866-521-0027, ext. 4906) to let her know you want to be on the Council. If you would like to suggest someone else to join the Council, please let that person know you are doing so before you contact Melanie.

Please let Melanie know which people or services you would represent:

• Adult Mental Health Services
• Youth Mental Health Services (you must be a youth, younger than age 21)
• A family member of a child using Mental Health Services
• Substance Abuse Services.

APS Healthcare will keep a list of people who are interested in joining. DHHS and APS Healthcare will choose members of the Member Advisory Council.

When is the first meeting?

March 6, 2008, from 12:30-4:00 at The Senator Inn, 284 Western Ave., Augusta. Lunch will be served.