Senior Peer Specialists’ concerns regarding Peer Specialist roles and functions under Medicaid-Managed Care in New Mexico.

Abstract

Peer Support Specialists are extremely effective in assisting individuals with emotional distress, as shown by consistent data from testimonials and both specialized and gray literature.1,2 Peer interventions contribute to improvements in both self-esteem and confidence, the ability to bring about positive changes, and the feeling that clinical treatment addresses the real needs and aspirations of individuals.3 In the past few years, Peer Support Specialists have been officially recognized as essential figures by Medicaid, Managed Care organizations, and other public health institutions for the of delivery of integrated and coordinated behavioural health services.4 It is worthwhile to note that Medicaid provides health coverage to low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities and that Medicaid-managed care provides for the delivery of Medicaid health benefits and additional services through the stipulation of contracts between state Medicaid agencies and managed care organizations.