Spring 1997

Compulsive gamblers in 12 Southeastern Minnesota counties have access to $150,000 in funding for treatment for gambling problems through a new Minnesota Compulsive Gambling Treatment Pilot.

Residents of a 12-county region, including Olmsted, Dodge, Fillmore, Goodhue, Wabasha, Winona, Houston, Mower, Steele, Freeborn, Rice and Waseca counties are eligible to have all or part of the cost of outpatient treatment paid, if they meet the clinical diagnosis for compulsive gambling and demonstrate financial need. Services include intervention planning, assessment and direct outpatient treatment.

Its anticipated the funding will serve 50-55 problem gamblers and 100-150 family members. The pilot program represents a new dollars follow clients strategy for funding compulsive gambling treatment. Previously, funding for outpatient treatment was distributed to six programs or sites throughout the state. Under the new pilot program, funding for problem gambling treatment is provided on an individual fee-for-service basis, creating more choices and improved access to qualified providers, closer to the individ- uals home community.

Call the Hotline at 1-800-437-3641 for further information.