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April 2025 Top of Mind
Support HARP members by increasing engagement and improving treatment adherence
New York state is committed to the physical and emotional health of its residents, particularly those participating in state-sponsored health plans.
To improve member engagement in behavioral health/substance use treatment in these populations, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of New York is participating in a common-themed Health and Recovery Performance (HARP) Improvement Project through 2025.
Why is this important to providers?
Patient engagement directly correlates with treatment efficacy and longevity, which can be challenging for Medicaid participants.
Patients invested in their treatment are more likely to have positive outcomes. We value our collaboration in improving outcomes for Medicaid participants and are pleased to share information and tools that support these efforts.
Who is at greatest risk?
Black and African American patients are less likely to seek and complete behavioral health and substance use disorder treatment. There are many indicators contributing to the statistics, but cultural stigmas combined with widespread distrust healthcare systems could be important factors.
What you can do
- Be educated about culturally competent options for HARP members
- Leverage our cultural competency resources
- Engage appropriate peer support for patients
What you can do to help
- Prioritize appointments with HARP members within 7 days of discharge from acute settings (hospital, detoxification unit and addiction inpatient program)
- Develop plans that combine medications with behavioral therapy. Using a dual approach offers the best chance of patient success
- Leverage our Peer support services to bridge HARP members during this critical transition period
Leveraging these strategies can result in reduced risks for:
- Substance withdrawal
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Relapse
- Readmission
- Homelessness
- Suicide
- Criminal justice involvement
About HARP
A Health and Recovery Plan (HARP) is a Medicaid managed care plan for adults that coordinates physical health, behavioral health and addiction services in an integrated way.
Who is eligible for HARP
New York residents must be 21 or older and be eligible for Medicaid managed care
An individual seeking HARP must meet the state’s behavioral health high-risk criteria to enroll
Have questions or need further assistance?
Email Karen Shippey, Network Trainer. We value our partnership in improving outcomes for HARP members.
Other helpful resources
- Clinical Tools and Quality Initiatives
- Recovery & Resiliency Toolkit for Providers
- Cultural Sensitivity Training
- Social Determinants of Health for Behavioral Health
- Optum Health Education
- Medication Assisted Treatment
- Clinical Practice Guidelines
