Vermont enhances crisis response with 988 hotline and mobile intervention teams

During a recent Vermont government meeting, officials discussed the future of the state's crisis system of care, emphasizing a vision that could transform mental health and substance use support for residents. The proposed system aims to streamline access to services, allowing individuals in crisis to call 988, a dedicated mental health hotline, similar to how one would call 911 for emergencies.

Currently, about 95% of calls to 988 are resolved over the phone, showcasing the effectiveness of this service. For situations requiring immediate intervention, a two-person enhanced mobile crisis response team can be dispatched to assist individuals in their communities, resolving 81% of cases on-site. If further support is needed, individuals can access alternative care facilities for up to 23 hours, or even stay in crisis beds for longer-term support.

The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration among local law enforcement, emergency medical services, and mental health professionals. Officials stressed that the new system is designed to ensure that first responders can focus on their primary roles while providing necessary mental health interventions. This approach aims to address the complexities of co-occurring mental health and substance use crises, which have historically been challenging to manage.

Concerns were raised about the interaction between law enforcement and individuals in crisis, particularly in light of recent violent incidents. Officials reassured attendees that the system is designed to prioritize safety for both individuals in crisis and responders. They noted that individuals experiencing mental health challenges are often more likely to be victims of crime rather than perpetrators.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhance training for first responders and improve the integration of 911 and 988 services. This effort aims to ensure that individuals can easily access the appropriate support during a crisis, regardless of which number they call. As Vermont moves forward with this vision, the focus remains on creating a responsive and compassionate crisis care system that meets the needs of its residents.