Vibrant Emotional Health and the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD) hosted a webinar on the collaboration between 988 and Mobile Crisis Teams.
The presentation provided an overview of the operational landscape, key challenges, and best practices for effective crisis response. It featured national findings from a survey of Mobile Crisis Teams (MCTs) alongside insights from Virginia’s model, which integrates 988 and MCT services using the BHL Platform.
Key Highlights:
- Diverse Operations: MCTs vary widely in their geographical reach, operational structures, and the communities they serve, reflecting diverse local needs and resources.
- Challenges in Scaling: Ambitions for 24/7 nationwide MCT coverage face hurdles such as workforce shortages and inadequate insurance reimbursements.
- Virginia Model: Virginia has implemented a structured integration of 988 with the BHL Platform, featuring regional hubs, specific dispatch protocols, and coordinated crisis responses, all supported by legislative initiatives and funding mechanisms.
- Best Practices: The presentation emphasized the importance of national leadership in defining consistent goals, triage procedures, and clinical standards, while allowing flexibility for local adaptations.
Behavioral Health Link is proud of our partnership with the state of Virginia and remains committed to advancing crisis care through enhanced coordination, standardized dispatch protocols, and sustainable funding solutions to meet the growing demand for these vital services.