EAST JORDAN — Cynthia Pepin, Behavioral Health Director at East Jordan Family Health Center, has received the Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan Primary Care Association.
According to a Jan. 17 news release, Pepin was given the award in recognition of her exceptional leadership, dedication and transformative contributions to the health center’s behavioral health services.
Pepin joined EJFHC on June 25, 2018, as a Behavioral and Substance Use Disorder Counselor. At the time, the health center offered co-located mental health services and was exploring a more integrated approach to behavioral health care.
Cynthia Pepin joined EJFHC on June 25, 2018, as a Behavioral and Substance Use Disorder Counselor. At the time, the health center offered co-located mental health services and was exploring a more integrated approach to behavioral health care.
In June 2021, Pepin was promoted to Director of Behavioral Health Services. Under her direction, EJFHC has made significant strides in delivering integrated, team-based care, with social workers offering timely and comprehensive services to patients.
In 2018, 282 patients accessed behavioral health services for a total of 1,272 visits. By 2023, the program expanded to serve 1,689 patients resulting in 3,733 visits, including telepsychiatry options.
“Cynthia’s understanding of the challenges faced by patients with behavioral health, mental health, and substance use disorders has been critical to improving health outcomes,” CEO of EJFHC Dan McKinnon said. “Her innovative leadership and dedication to patient care will have a lasting impact on our health center and community.”
Pepin has assisted in staff development, guiding team members from internships to licensed social work positions at a health center. She has also led efforts to secure federal funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration to expand the health center’s programs for veterans, at-risk youth, and workplace wellness.