I'm so excited to see a program that uses the CAHOOTS model that has been so successful in Oregon. I look forward to the day that it can be 24/7 and can respond to calls from 911 as well as 988, as I believe CAHOOTS does. This could really transform the care of mentally ill and substance abuse. It could also save millions of dollars by using lower cost teams for engagement. Win-Win!! Now if we could only develop more long term care alternatives and more supported housing to help people once they are out of immediate crisis mode.

The article neglected to say how much this program cost. Please advise.

I'm confused about the dispatching of the TRUST and MCRT teams. From 7 am to 7 pm the nonprofit Pacific Clinics dispatches the TRUST teams, said to be vans of "clinicians, first aid specialists, and peer navigators," based on 988 calls. Away from those hours, the MCRT teams are dispatched by someone unstated. Are the Police aware of 988 calls and these dispatches, and get a message if the situation turns bad? Who makes the decision "to ensure the right response?"

I would guess the cops are better de-escalators than they are commonly perceived to be, and the uniform and the command presence likely serve to de-escalate many a situation. But this new program could be cheaper, and could promote thorough follow-up.