OIPSS Program Manager City of Dallas R.I.G.H.T. Care Program, United States
The City of Dallas’ mental health response unit, R.I.G.H.T. Care Program which deployed in January 2018 to respond to mental health related calls and divert residents experiencing mental health crisis away from unnecessary hospitalization or jail time. The R.I.G.H.T. Care program ensures an immediate, community based behavioral healthcare and ensures continuity of care through intervention and prevention services, throughout the city with a focus on traditionally underserved communities. The R.I.G.H.T. Care Unit includes a Behavioral Health Clinicians stationed in the 911 Call Center and co-response field that consist of a Dallas Police Officer, Dallas Fire Rescue Paramedics, and a Licensed Masters Social Workers. The unit is skilled in de-escalating mental health crises, collaborative problem solving, social service referrals, and assuring public safety. This presentation will review program operations; performance outcomes and discuss implementation challenges and further expansion plans.
