Working Together: How 988, Crisis Response, and EMS Can Improve Community Care

Hosted by NHTSA’s Office of EMS in collaboration with the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), this webinar discusses opportunities for collaboration between the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988), crisis response, and EMS communities. Launched in July 2022, 988 is a new three-digit number for the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This system, in collaboration with 911 centers and first responders, is designed to support nationwide improvements in behavioral and mental health emergency responses.

EMS clinicians will hear from peers already engaging with 988 and crisis response teams about challenges and successes, and how to navigate interoperability between 911, 988, EMS, and other response agencies. Hear from both urban and rural agencies about how their collaboration with crisis response partners has made a meaningful difference in their communities.

Watch now for lessons learned in addressing barriers between these critical players in emergency response and providing improved resources in behavioral health incidents.

Presenters:
Kate Elkins, NHTSA Office of EMS
Daniel Gerard, International Association of EMS Chiefs
Richard McKeon, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Sean Caffrey, National EMS Management Association
Jodie Chinn, Gunnison Regional 911 Authority
Kimberly Behounek, Gunnison Valley Health