{"id":8992,"date":"2025-07-02T10:00:02","date_gmt":"2025-07-02T14:00:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/uniteustailstg.wpengine.com\/?post_type=press&p=8992"},"modified":"2025-08-14T10:39:07","modified_gmt":"2025-08-14T14:39:07","slug":"rio-arriba-county-launches-initiative-to-combat-health-fragmentation-and-improve-community-well-being","status":"publish","type":"press","link":"https:\/\/uniteus.com\/press\/rio-arriba-county-launches-connect-initiative\/","title":{"rendered":"Rio Arriba County Launches Initiative to Combat Health Fragmentation and Improve Community Well-being"},"content":{"rendered":"

Leveraging Unite Us\u2019 closed-loop referral system, the CONNECT initiative expands to Rio Arriba to enhance coordinated care and address the impact of the Opioid crisis.<\/em><\/h2>\n

RIO ARRIBA COUNTY, NEW MEXICO \u2013 JULY 2, 2025<\/strong>\u2013Rio Arriba County is taking a significant step forward in addressing the impact of the opioid crisis with the launch of Rio Arriba CONNECT. The local program, powered by Unite Us, the nation\u2019s trusted technology partner for integrating health and community-based care, is designed to combat fragmented services and create a seamless network of support for residents.<\/p>\n

Rio Arriba County has been disproportionately affected by the opioid crisis, and this initiative aims to deliver a comprehensive approach. By addressing the medical, behavioral, and social needs of all residents, it aims to alleviate residents\u2019 chances of using substances and support them on a path to recovery.<\/p>\n

“Rio Arriba CONNECT represents a significant step forward in our efforts to improve community access to essential services,\u201d said Jeremy Maestas, Rio Arriba County Manager. “This innovative tool will enhance our ability to coordinate care, streamline referrals, and ensure our residents receive the support and care they need in a timely and efficient manner. Our goal remains to build a healthier, more resilient county, and Rio Arriba CONNECT is a vital part of that mission.\u201d<\/p>\n

The CONNECT network launched in New Mexico in 2019. Rio Arriba joins a broad group of local government and healthcare leaders already leveraging Unite Us\u2019 closed-loop referral system<\/a>, including Los Alamos County<\/a>, Dona Ana County, Bernalillo County and the City of Albuquerque<\/a>, the city and county of Santa Fe, the WIN (Workforce Integration Network) and their seven-county footprint, and our statewide partnership with Presbyterian Health Services<\/a>. Reports<\/a> from Santa Fe County and the City of Santa Fe attest to the platform’s effectiveness in coordinating care and enhancing residents’ lives.<\/p>\n

\u201cRio Arriba CONNECT symbolizes a pivotal advancement in our shared vision for Rio Arriba County and New Mexico overall,” said Erin Willis, director of customer success at Unite Us. “This initiative empowers us to coordinate care with greater effectiveness while fostering deeper, more meaningful relationships among our diverse community partners. By harnessing the invaluable data the platform provides, Rio Arriba County can assess the impact of its efforts and continually elevate services. Together, we can forge a powerful network of support that transforms lives, demonstrating that our strength lies in unity.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Rio Arriba CONNECT system will function through three key steps:<\/strong><\/p>\n