06/12/26
WGA seeks input in support of Hawaiʻi Governor Josh Green’s Chair initiative, Health Beyond Health Care
Health begins where we live, learn, work, and play. These social and environmental conditions have a significant effect on our mental health, long before we see a doctor. Health Beyond Health Care, the Western Governors' Association (WGA) Chair initiative of Hawaiʻi Governor Josh Green, will focus on strengthening mental health outcomes across western states and territories by addressing both clinical care and the broader conditions that are foundational to mental health and wellbeing. The initiative will examine strategies to improve mental health care access and delivery, prioritize prevention and early intervention, expand coverage and affordability of mental health services and supports, and build lifelong wellbeing and community resilience.
This survey is intended to help WGA design and execute the initiative by identifying: (1) the effects of current approaches on mental health outcomes in the West; (2) priority issues for gubernatorial leadership to consider in addressing comprehensive mental health services and resources; (3) best practices for improving mental health outcomes; (4) federal policy issues for potential WGA advocacy; and (5) individuals or organizations interested in participating in the initiative, including workshops and webinars.