The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced today it is awarding up to 29 new grants, totaling up to $25 million over three years, to expand use of health information technology to increase access to behavioral health services.

This program will leverage technology to improve access and coordination of the treatment of mental and substance use disorders, especially for Americans in remote areas or in underserved populations. Web-based services, smart phones and behavioral health electronic applications (e-apps) will enhance communication between patients and health care providers to improve

discussions about treatment options and decisions, and better manage health.

"One of the most important advances in medicine is the application of information technology to health care," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde. "Technology now offers substance abuse treatment programs new ways to reach people in need of treatment and recovery support with safe, high-quality care." This grant program is part of SAMHSA's Strategic Initiative on Health Information Technology.

Each grantee may receive up to $280,000 annually over three years. The actual amounts may vary, depending on availability of funds and progress achieved by the grantees.