Project Description Narrative:
The purpose of this project is to understand and describe the population receiving mental health emergency treatment, the services being utilized, and the extent to which a new hybrid model in Milwaukee County leads to improvement in time to treatment, appropriate law enforcement engagement, connections to a continuum of care, and reductions in avoidable inpatient and subsequent emergency department utilization.
The project team will analyze patient data and conduct process mapping and gap analyses to understand the dynamics and effectiveness of the care model. The team will explore moderating (e.g., medical-legal disposition) and mediating factors (e.g., police) influencing intake and care transitions.
Findings will be disseminated to public/private mental health providers, law enforcement, and patient advocacy groups. The team will then use findings to pilot process improvements and create meaningful communications and tools to improve the quality of care and strengthen coordination. During the final quarter, the team will recommend a sustainable evaluation approach and opportunities for applied research.
Community partners: Aurora Health Care, Inc., Milwaukee Behavioral Health Division, Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services, Milwaukee Health Care Partnership, Mental Health Emergency Center