From SAMHSA:

Individuals with behavioral health disorders often experience multiple co-occurring, long-term, or chronic health conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, other behavioral health disorders) that can result in increased early mortality, greater functional loss, unnecessary hospitalizations, and increased costs. Addressing these issues is a key U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretarial strategic initiative.

For the past year, SAMHSA has been an active member in the HHS Interagency Workgroup on Multiple Chronic Conditions. Recently, the workgroup released a draft strategic framework for the Department that provides a roadmap for improving the health status of persons with these conditions.

The draft strategic framework is HERE.

HHS has requested comments from the public and other stakeholders on this draft strategic framework. Please note that:

• Comments on the draft strategic framework should be received no later than June 18, 2010, at 5 p.m. eastern time.

• Electronic responses are highly preferred and should be addressed to MCC@hhs.gov. Written responses should be addressed to:

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Room 736-E
Washington, DC 20201
Attention: MCC Strategic Framework

• When providing comments, please self-identify with your name. Anonymous submissions will not be considered.

• The submission of written materials should not exceed five pages, not including appendices and supplemental documents. Responders may submit other forms of electronic materials to demonstrate or exhibit concepts of their written responses.

For further information, contact:

Ms. Monica Stevenson
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Room 736-E
Washington, DC 20201
Phone: (202) 205-5834
Email: Monica.Stevenson@hhs.gov

Want to know more about this effort?  View the Federal Register Notice.