California’s Governor Gavin Newsom recently proposed budget cuts that could limit a vital statewide behavioral health program. This program plays a crucial role in providing emergency care during mental health crises.
In San Diego County, Mobile Crisis Response Teams (MCRTs) are a lifeline for those experiencing mental health emergencies. These teams consist of trained civilians who help connect people in crisis with long-term mental health services, often reducing the need for law enforcement interventions. Sheriff Kelly Martinez noted that there have been over 32,000 calls to MCRTs, and only 2% required police involvement.
Experts, including those from the County Behavioral Health Directors’ Association of California, recently voiced concerns about losing state funding for these teams. Jessica Wilson, CEO of the National Alliance on Mental Illness California, emphasized that making mobile crisis services optional would create inconsistencies across counties. Families in one area might access immediate support, while others could be left without.
The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 made mobile crisis services eligible for Medicaid funding, which is critical for low-income patients. However, a significant drop in federal matching funds is expected by 2027, placing more financial pressure on counties. Currently, California has been funding these services as part of its Medi-Cal program, but Newsom’s budget proposal threatens to turn them into optional services covered by individual counties. This could lead to a $24 million budget shortfall for San Diego County.
Since 2021, the number of MCRTs in San Diego has increased significantly to 44, with 98% of calls receiving a response within an hour. This efficiency helps keep law enforcement focused on other priorities while ensuring that those in crisis receive timely care and connection to ongoing treatment.
San Diego County has made strides in enhancing behavioral health services, including new crisis stabilization centers. These efforts aim to address issues like homelessness and incarceration through a strategy called “Care Before Crisis.” However, the proposed budget cuts could threaten support for the 112,000 residents they currently serve.
Newsom’s revised budget for the 2027 fiscal year is set at $349 billion, despite a $400 million decrease in Medi-Cal funding. This brings additional challenges, especially with H.R. 1, a recent federal bill that may result in significant healthcare coverage losses for many residents. By January 2027, an estimated 500,000 fewer Californians will be served by Medi-Cal, which could heighten the need for mobile crisis services.
Nadia Privara Brahms, head of San Diego County Behavioral Health Services, highlighted the potential surge in demand for mobile crisis assistance amid these changes. She labeled these services as essential, urging the state to prioritize long-term funding for the program.
In summary, the future of mobile crisis services hangs in the balance as funding is debated. The stakes are high, with the potential for families to face disparate access to crucial mental health support based on their geographic location.
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Behavioral Health Services,budget cuts,mental health
