Act 249: Wisconsin’s New Crisis Now Model Tackles Mental Health Care Access and Reduces Wait Times

The Crisis Now model is a new initiative aimed at improving mental health care in Wisconsin. Act 249, which has been introduced in the state legislature, aims to bridge the gap in the system of care by ensuring individuals in mental health crises receive timely and appropriate care.

Under this bill, crisis urgent care and observation facilities will be established to provide prompt and effective treatment for both young people and adults experiencing mental health emergencies. This initiative aims to reduce waiting times and eliminate the need for families to travel long distances to seek care. Additionally, Act 249 will offer an alternative to law enforcement intervention, preventing individuals in crisis from being sent to either an emergency room or jail.

The collaborative efforts between the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, partners, and the legislature have led to the development of Act 249. This legislation reflects a commitment to improving mental health treatment and care for all Wisconsinites. By implementing the Crisis Now model, the state is working towards providing appropriate care for individuals in need, while also reducing stress for both patients and their families.