A team of UofL researchers is developing a pilot program for Louisville Metro government that will divert a portion of 911 calls to health, behavioral health and ancillary services.聽
鈥淓vents of 2020 represent a public demand for change, and the process of healing requires re-conceptualizing public safety and emergency response systems in a way that honors the needs and wishes of the community and maximizes use of already limited resources,鈥 said Susan聽Buchino, assistant professor, . 鈥淥ne such way is to provide social and clinical support services as an alternative or auxiliary to police and EMS.鈥
Buchino, who also serves as assistant director of the , says the Louisville Metro alternative responder program hopes to reduce incidents of confrontation and demands on the Louisville Metro Police Department, as well as create a positive health impact and fiscal savings. The team will investigate national best practices and analyze local data to create a model designed specifically for Louisville.聽
Tony Zipple, SPHIS executive-in-residence, along with other are working with Buchino. The region鈥檚 community mental health center, is partnering with the SPHIS team in planning Louisville鈥檚 model, offering mental health and substance abuse treatment expertise. The also is collaborating on the project.
The planning process includes seeking the input of community members, as well as leaders from multiple government agencies, behavioral health and social service providers, and representatives from advocacy organizations.
鈥淭ransparency and community engagement around the planning process is crucial,鈥 said Buchino. 鈥淲e are including multiple partners to understand how they perceive this project and how it fits into our community and their organization鈥檚 other ongoing work.鈥
The team is consulting with officials in Eugene, Oregon, who implemented an evidence-based model for deflection called . In this model, the Eugene Police Department partnered with White Bird Clinic, a local Federally Qualified Health Center that offers a full range of medical, dental and behavioral health services, as well as drug and alcohol treatment.
Researchers expect to complete a final report later this summer which will include:
- Louisville alternative model design, including an operating model for services
- Comprehensive training materials
- Implementation and evaluation plans
- Budget and sustainability plan
- Cost-benefit forecast
