The City Council of Indianapolis highlighted significant advancements in mental health care during the recent Health & Hospital Corporation Board meeting. A key focus was the success of the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) model, which has enabled healthcare teams to meet clients in hospitals and facilitate seamless transitions to outpatient care. This innovative approach has allowed for same-day or next-day appointments post-discharge, significantly improving patient access to mental health services.

Dr. Overly reported that the ACT team has successfully administered long-acting injectable medications in community settings, reaching patients who have been reluctant to visit clinics for years. This outreach has not only improved patient care but has also reduced the need for police interventions in mental health crises. One notable case involved a quick collaboration between the ACT team and boarding home staff, which effectively managed a patient’s psychiatric and diabetes needs, preventing rehospitalization shortly after discharge.

The meeting also celebrated the achievements of the Indianapolis Emergency Management Services (IMS), which recently held its third annual skills competition, showcasing the talents of its crews. The event saw a record participation of 14 teams, with Mikaela Keller and Elijah Cheneves emerging as champions. Additionally, the IMS recognized outstanding providers at an awards banquet, celebrating their dedication and excellence in service.

Looking ahead, IMS is gearing up for a busy September, participating in various community events, including the WNBA playoffs and the Circle City Classic Parade, while also preparing for the upcoming NCAA Final Four in April.

Overall, the meeting underscored the commitment of Indianapolis health services to enhance patient care and community engagement, marking a promising direction for future health initiatives.