These efforts are part of a broader initiative in California to address homelessness, mental health crises and substance abuse treatment. Photo courtesy of Sacramento County

 

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Sacramento County is kicking off the new year by expanding two Behavioral Health Service programs, combining Access and Substance Use Prevention Treatment (SUPT) services to streamline care, address critical needs and enhance the health and safety of our community.

Behavioral Health Services-Screening and Coordination (BHS-SAC) Call Center

The new Behavioral Health Services-Screening and Coordination Call Center simplifies access to mental health and substance use treatment services by combining multiple phone numbers into one centralized line at 916-875-1055. This new service integrates the Mental Health Access Team and the Substance Use Prevention and Treatment System of Care under one number. By doing so, Sacramento County ensures that individuals in need can receive timely coordination among providers and improve health outcomes for those struggling with mental health and substance use challenges.

“The BHS-SAC Call Center is a game-changer for our community,” said Dr. Ryan Quist, the Behavioral Health director. “By centralizing these essential services, we’re breaking down barriers to care and simplifying how our community can receive mental health and substance use resources.”

Implementation of Senate Bill 43 (SB 43)

Sacramento County will implement the state’s modernized law for involuntary psychiatric holds, which expands the definition of “gravely disabled.” This new definition includes individuals unable to care for their basic needs for health and safety due to a severe substance use disorder or a co-occurring mental health disorder and severe substance use disorder.

Senate Bill 43 also broadens the definition of “basic needs” to include a person's ability to obtain necessary medical care, personal safety, food, weather-appropriate clothing and/or shelter.

The updated law will expand access to acute and long-term care for our most vulnerable community members who meet the definition of gravely disabled and are suffering from a severe substance use disorder.

These efforts are part of a broader initiative in California to address homelessness, mental health crises and substance abuse treatment. The efforts implemented reflect the county’s dedication to providing comprehensive care and fostering collaboration between health services and community partners. For more information about these programs, visit Sacramento County’s Department of Health Services’ Behavioral Health website at dhs.saccounty.gov/BHS.