Across the U.S., county governments are at the forefront of transforming behavioral health crisis response. The launch of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, along with the growing presence of mobile crisis teams, has intensified the focus on establishing Crisis Response Centers (CRCs). These centers are vital for alleviating the burden on first responders, hospitals, and detention centers – which currently serve as a default solution for those in crisis. 

With 75 percent of the U.S. population reliant on county-based behavioral health services through more than 750 county-supported or operated behavioral health authorities, it is essential that counties looking to partner on the operations of a CRC create concise and effective requests for proposals (RFPs). 

The Complexity of Crisis Response 

Crisis response centers vary significantly in their scope, capabilities, and the populations they serve. Some provide peer support and a safe environment for those with lower acuity needs. Others are equipped to treat individuals in crisis with high acuity needs, such as suicidal behaviors, acute agitation, and substance intoxication or withdrawal. 
 
An ideal CRC will offer a 'no wrong door' approach, serving all individuals regardless of their acuity level. This requires multiple programs with different capabilities, allowing individuals to transition smoothly through treatment as their condition stabilizes. 

For the purpose of this series, we define a comprehensive CRC as a center that includes: 

• A high acuity receiving function with a dedicated entrance for first responders 

• 23-hour crisis observation with rapid assessment and treatment by an interdisciplinary team 

• A crisis stabilization unit for continued inpatient-like treatment 

• An urgent care clinic for walk-in services for lower acuity individuals 
  
  

In our upcoming blog series, we'll dive into the fundamental questions stakeholders must ask and answer prior to releasing an RFP. We will list out the questions and also provide recommended questions to include in your RFP once you've established a clear vision and strategy for your CRC.

Next week we will highlight the key considerations local stakeholders must answer regarding the clinical needs of a community before releasing a request for proposal.