The big picture: Ohio is expanding mobile response services for youth under 21 experiencing a mental health crisis. Currently, only 47 of the state’s 88 counties have access to these services, but the state is aiming for statewide coverage by January 2025, according to the Dayton Daily News.
Catch up quickly: Ohio’s Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) is seeking providers to contract for these services, offering up to $12 million in funding. The expansion follows Governor Mike DeWine’s 2024 State of the State address, where he emphasized the importance of making these services available statewide.
Zoom in:
- Key services: The mobile response teams will go directly to youth in crisis, providing on-the-spot de-escalation and support, aiming to divert them from emergency rooms.
- Current gaps: Much of southwest Ohio is still without these crucial services, with only Butler and Warren counties covered.
What we’re hearing: Helen Jones-Kelley, Montgomery County ADAMHS executive director, highlights the difficulties in rolling out these services due to costs but emphasizes the renewed commitment from the state as a game-changer.
Between the lines: Medicaid billing codes are now set up specifically for youth crisis services, simplifying the process and making it easier for providers to offer these services.
Why it matters: With rising behavioral health crises among youth, timely intervention is critical. These services provide immediate, specialized care that can prevent further escalation and long-term harm.
The bottom line: Expanding mobile response services across Ohio is a critical step toward ensuring that all youth in the state have access to immediate mental health support during crises.
The Life Anew Angle:
- Relevance to BIPOC communities: Expanding access to these mobile mental health services is crucial for BIPOC and underrepresented communities, who often face greater barriers to care. Immediate, localized support can help bridge the gap.
- Life Anew’s mission: Life Anew Behavioral Health can leverage this expansion to enhance its holistic mental health services, ensuring that underrepresented youth and families receive timely and effective crisis intervention. By supporting these state initiatives, Life Anew continues to empower communities and promote mental well-being across all demographics.
What’s next: Providers interested in contracting for these services must submit proposals by August 30, 2024. The state aims to have the expanded services operational by January 2025.
Resources: Individuals needing services can call the statewide call center at 1-888-617-6777 or the national suicide prevention hotline at 988.
