Elaine Alfano (video)

Elaine Alfano, Policy Analyst (play video)
Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law

As a Policy Analyst for the Judge David L. Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, Elaine Alfano is responsible for research and analysis of behavioral health issues and related state and federal policies. She recently co-authored the publication, Way to Go: School Success for Children with Mental Health Care Needs, a study of school-wide positive behavior support (SW-PBS) initiatives that foster collaborations with local mental health agencies. Other projects have focussed on the integration of primary and mental health care, transition-age youth, self-directed care, state Medicaid prescription drug policies, and benefits assistance for offenders with mental illness transitioning back into the community. Alfano was previously a State Representative in the Vermont Legislature, serving on the House Health and Welfare Committee for six years. During her tenure, the Legislature worked on numerous behavioral health issues including the successful enactment of a precedent-setting mental health and substance abuse parity law. In addition to holding elected office, Alfano has 20 years of experience in the not-for-profit sector, working for organizations involved in health and human services policy.