Facilities Provide Immediate Assistance to People in Crisis
New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced the availability of more than $100 million in funding over the next five years for 12 new Intensive Crisis Stabilization Centers across the State that will provide immediate care for people who are experiencing a behavioural health crisis. The Office of Mental Health (OMH) and the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), have issued a joint Request for Proposals to fund development of the Centers.
“Every New Yorker deserves the dignity of having access to quality health care, especially during a public health crisis,” Governor Hochul said. “These behavioural health centers will provide immediate assistance to people in crisis before their condition worsens. New York will continue to lead the way in making important investments to eliminate healthcare disparities and help ensure that behavioural health services are available to every New Yorker who needs it.”
OMH Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “Crisis Stabilization Centers serve adults, children and families who need an urgent response to critical situations. The Centers will be open all day every day of the year and will provide help when it is needed most. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s direction and leadership we have an opportunity to fund these proven and effective community-based services.”
OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said, “For those unable to access alcohol or substance use disorder treatment during normal business hours, Crisis Stabilization Centers will provide a 24/7 front door to address their addiction. After supporting a handful of these sites over the past few years, OASAS is proud to finally be able to promote the establishment of this model across New York State. Now, people in more communities will have access to these vital services which are critical to helping improve their health.”
State contracts awarded through the RFP will provide more than $100 million for the 12 Crisis Stabilization Centers over five years, including $20 million for start-up costs and more than $80 million in operating funds
All crisis services are offered in a safe, welcoming, and therapeutic environment. Walk-in care is available to all individuals, including adults, children, adolescents, and families. The Centers will be open 24/7, 365 days per year and recipients may receive services for up to 24 hours.
The Centers will provide care, observation and urgent treatment to individuals experiencing a mental health and/or substance use crisis. These services will be provided right in the community and will divert individuals away from unnecessary emergency room visits. The Centers will provide peer and recovery-oriented support services, in addition to referral and follow-up services to ensure people continue to receive the support they need after discharge.
The Crisis Stabilization Centers are part of a comprehensive crisis response system that includes mobile crisis teams, crisis residential programs, and other community services and supports.
The RFP calls for the development of three Crisis Stabilization Centers in New York City and nine across the remainder of the State. The Centers are to be jointly certified by OMH and OASAS and developed in collaboration with the communities they serve, including Local Mental Hygiene Directors, schools, community providers, law enforcement agencies and other identified programs to provide a comprehensive continuum of care for referrals and follow-up.
Image source Kathy Hochul Twitter Feed
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