BetMGM and Kindbridge Launch Colorado Problem Gambling and Mental Health Initiative
BetMGM, the online betting arm of leading U.S. casino operator MGM International and Entain, has teamed up with Kindbridge Behavioral Health to provide problem gambling support services in Colorado.
Colorado online sports betting players who decide to self-exclude from BetMGM’s online sportsbook will now be offered access to free and comprehensive mental health assessments and group support service from Kindbridge.
“Kindbridge is a leader in developing world-class mental health care that comprehends the unique challenges associated with gambling addiction,” said Adam Greenblatt, CEO of BetMGM, in a press release.
“We are eager to champion the growth and expansion of connecting problem gamblers with the crucial services they need.”
Connectivity in Care
The initiative is designed to offer immediate resources for players, including scheduled appointments with specialized problem gambling outpatient treatment providers through telehealth services.
Additionally, they will gain access to a variety of peer support and educational groups, all tailored to initiate their recovery journey.
“Relationships like this make it considerably easier for individuals seeking care to find swift access to the services they need,” said Daniel Umfleet, founder & CEO of Kindbridge Behavioral Health.
“Together, Kindbridge and BetMGM are pushing the envelope in creating the right kind of connectivity between the gaming industry and health care services that will positively impact lives.”
For those interested in learning more about the program or seeking assistance, they can visit Kindbridge’s website or contact them directly.
Alongside this development in Colorado, in 2023 BetMGM has also rolled out other responsible gambling initiatives across the U.S. That included the launch of its GameSense responsible sports betting and education booths at popular NFL stadiums.
As well as providing responsible gambling tools, the booths help potential customers learn the basics of football betting to avoid jumping in blind.
Important Investment
The Colorado Division of Gaming is in charge of regulating online and retail sportsbooks in the Centennial State.
It introduced a new rule requiring operators to implement a robust risk-scoring system for detecting problem gambling and to establish a rapid response communication strategy.
By partnering with Kindbridge, BetMGM has met these requirements, and also gone beyond that scope with mental health services packaged in.
“It is important that the sports betting industry continues to invest and innovate in this field,” Greenblatt said.
Interestingly, earlier this month, BetMGM co-operator MGM Resorts International was at the center of a story about a different kind of relaxation service.
After a cyberattack took out most services across its famous Nevada casino venues on the Las Vegas Strip, Sin City strip club Larry Flynt’s Hustler Club Las Vegas cheekily stepped in to offer free lap dances and other discount perks to Las Vegas visitors affected by the 10-day cyber disruption.