Suicide Prevention: AZ Blue Programs that Aim to Save Lives

There have been nearly 900 suicide deaths in Arizona this year to date according to data from the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Suicide is preventable. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (AZ Blue) is working to help save lives in many ways, including two suicide prevention programs.

Suicide Prevention Programs

The Suicide Prevention Partnership (SPP) is an AZ Blue program that provides a safe space for members to talk about their experience and receive support. Care Managers reach out to members with multiple suicide attempts or with an attempt requiring medical intervention. AZ Blue Health Choice, the Medicaid team, has a similar suicide prevention program called SHOUT (Safety Help Outreach Understand Track).

Both programs have a team of Care Managers who work with individuals to identify gaps in care, help them navigate the healthcare system, connect them to resources, and consistently engage with them during a difficult time.

"Helping members feel connected, supported, and not alone is at the heart of what we do,” said Lauren Fofanova, Director of Care Management for the Medicaid team. “Knowing someone is there to help navigate challenges can have a lasting impact on a member's health and quality of life."

AZ Blue engaged with 65 individuals through both programs in 2025.

"The connection I received made a difference in my life." That’s the kind of feedback our Care Management team hears from our members.

“Our Care Managers support members throughout their healthcare journey by developing individualized, member-centered goals,” Dawn Naccarato, Director of Integrated Care Management said. “We focus on improving access to behavioral health resources and providers while addressing Social Determinants of Health barriers, including food, housing, and transportation, to help ensure members receive the right care at the right time.”

Help is available

If you or a loved one needs immediate help: Call or text 988, or chat 988lifeline.org, to connect with a trained crisis counselor 24/7.

Learn more about 988 or visit our Behavioral Health website for additional resources.