Dr. Sarah Vinson’s, the Lorio Forensics’ Principal consultant, has received a prestigious appointment by the Governor of Georgia to the States Behavioral Health Reform and Innovation Commission. She was one of nine appointments by the Governor. The commission includes 24 members, and Dr. Vinson is the sole Child & Adolescent psychiatrist.
The Georgia Behavioral Health Reform & Innovation Commission was created by House Bill 514 during the 2019 legislative session. The commission will review the behavioral health services and facilities available in Georgia, the identification of behavioral health issues in children, adolescents and adults, as well as the role the education system has in the identification and treatment of behavioral health issues. Additionally, the commission will review the impact behavioral health issues have on the criminal justice system, the state’s homeless population, delivery of care, access to care, the role of payers in such access and the impact untreated behavioral illness has on children transitioning into adulthood. The commission will conclude on June 30, 2023.
Dr. Vinson stated, “As a child and forensic psychiatrist, I am honored by the opportunity to serve in this capacity. It is apparent that there are mental health and legal ramifications of shortcomings in our educational, housing, and mental health systems. Any role that I can play in contributing the betterment of these systems is welcomed. I see addressing social determinants of mental health and the provision of strong community mental health resources as intercept 0 in criminal justice diversion.”
During the swearing in ceremony, Governor Kemp stated, “Working together with communities and families, this commission of legislators, judges, subject-matter experts, and citizens will now examine how the state can improve access and delivery of behavioral health services for the people of Georgia.”
