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San Mateo's Co-Responder Model Reduces Hospital Holds
24 Dec
Summary
- Co-responder model reduces involuntary psychiatric holds by 17%.
- Annual cost savings estimated between $300,000 and $800,000.
- Program aims to provide alternatives to incarceration and ER visits.
San Mateo County's innovative co-responder model, integrating mental health clinicians with law enforcement, has shown a marked decrease in involuntary psychiatric holds by approximately 17% in its pilot cities. This program offers an alternative to traditional responses, aiming to divert individuals from unnecessary hospitalizations and the justice system.
The initiative, which began as a pilot four years ago, has led to estimated annual cost savings of $300,000 to $800,000. Researchers found that this approach reduces the likelihood of future mental health-related 911 calls, signifying a more effective crisis management strategy.
This model frees up police resources while ensuring individuals in crisis receive specialized support. The success of the San Mateo pilot has led to its expansion across nearly every city in the county, demonstrating a promising shift in how mental health emergencies are addressed.
