The Sconi

The Department of Health Services Deputy Secretary Deb Standridge issued a statement regarding Wisconsin Act 249, which aims to expand emergency detention and urgent crisis care facilities. The act is designed to enhance access to mental health services across the state.

“One of our top priorities is access to mental health services for all Wisconsinites who need them. Act 249 will help us address a significant gap in Wisconsin’s system of care and ensure people experiencing mental health emergencies get the right care, at the right time, in the right place,” said Standridge.

She elaborated on how the bill aligns with the Crisis Now model, which includes components such as having someone to contact, someone to respond, and providing a safe place for individuals in crisis. “This bill will help us transform the way we care for our state’s most vulnerable using the Crisis Now model of someone to contact, someone to respond, and a safe place to get help.”

Standridge highlighted that crisis urgent care and observation facilities would be equipped with staff and services aimed at de-escalating situations and treating both young people and adults experiencing mental health crises without long wait times or extensive travel requirements for families. She also noted that law enforcement officers would no longer face difficult decisions between taking individuals in crisis to an emergency room or jail.

“This no wrong door approach provides appropriate care without adding additional stress to the patient and that patient’s family and community,” she added.

Act 249 was developed through collaboration with various partners and legislative bodies. “Act 249 is the result of significant and sustained collaboration with our partners and the legislature, and we are excited to continue to move the Crisis Now model forward to improve mental health treatment and care for all Wisconsinites,” Standridge concluded.

For further inquiries from members of the media, questions can be directed to DHSMedia@dhs.wisconsin.gov.