Franklin County Opens New Crisis Care Center to Enhance Behavioral Health Services

In a recent meeting hosted by the Columbus Metropolitan Club, community leaders and health professionals gathered to discuss the pressing need for improved crisis care in Central Ohio. With emergency rooms overwhelmed and community-based services often unable to meet demand, the Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Health Board of Franklin County (ADAMH) and the Central Ohio Hospital Council have collaborated with various organizations to establish a new psychiatric crisis and emergency system task force. This initiative aims to create a comprehensive system of crisis care, culminating in the upcoming opening of the Franklin County Crisis Care Center in Columbus.

The new facility, supported by both public and private investments, including the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation, will adopt a "no wrong door" approach. This means that all adults seeking help will receive the necessary services, marking a significant advancement in the community's ability to address mental health crises. The center will implement innovative best practices and will work alongside existing resources such as the 988 hotline and non-police crisis response teams.

Panelists at the meeting emphasized the importance of redefining crisis care. Unlike traditional emergency responses, the new model focuses on providing immediate support for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises related to mental health or substance use disorders. The 988 hotline is highlighted as a critical resource, allowing individuals to connect with trained professionals who can de-escalate situations or dispatch mobile crisis teams to provide on-site assistance.

The discussions underscored a shift in how the community approaches mental health crises. For years, emergency departments have been the default option for individuals in crisis, often leading to inadequate care. The establishment of a community-based crisis facility is seen as a vital step toward ensuring that individuals receive appropriate treatment in a safe environment.

As the meeting concluded, panelists expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that have made this new system of care possible. The anticipated opening of the Franklin County Crisis Care Center represents a significant milestone in enhancing access to vital mental health services and improving the overall quality of life for residents in Central Ohio. The community now looks forward to the implementation of this comprehensive crisis care system and its potential to transform how mental health crises are managed in the region.