Tulsa highlights co‑response teams, TFT CARES and overdose response as public safety priorities
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Summary
City and TFD presenters described co‑response teams (ART1 and ART2), TFT CARES case‑management work and an overdose response program that uses harm‑reduction kits and peer support; presenters said follow‑up case management and coordination reduced 9‑1‑1 usage and improved outcomes for clients.
City and public safety officials told the council they are expanding co‑response and community assistance models to address behavioral health crises, reduce repeated 9‑1‑1 use and connect people to services.
Speakers described ART 1 as a co‑response unit pairing a firefighter/paramedic and a COPES clinician from Family & Children’s Services to respond to mental and behavioral health calls and coordinate rapid follow‑up. Presenters said ART 1 focuses on social determinants of health, connects callers to treatment and keeps case managers involved after the initial response so charges can be dismissed or services coordinated upon graduation from programs.
ART 2, a downtown‑focused unit staffed with community paramedicine‑trained firefighter/paramedics, responds to medical calls in the IDL/downtown area, conducts wellness checks and provides outreach to housed and unhoused residents. Presenters said these units allow other emergency resources to remain available and provide extended time and services that can reduce repeat emergency calls.
Tulsa Fire Department staff described TFT CARES (Community Assistance, Referrals and Educational Services) as a case‑management model that has reduced 9‑1‑1 utilization in tracked analyses. TFD also outlined an overdose response team and placement of harm‑reduction supply boxes at fire stations (Narcan kits, fentanyl test strips, education pamphlets). A recovery peer on the team described how lived experience helps build rapport and connect individuals to services.
Program leaders said data indicate positive outcomes — including reductions in repeat 9‑1‑1 use and housing placements for some participants — and urged continued investment where results justify expansion.
