Oakland Community Health Network unveils quarterly funding report and key mental health initiatives

The Public Health and Safety Committee of Oakland County convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding community health initiatives and funding allocations. The meeting featured presentations from key representatives of the Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN), including Frances Carley, the Director of Strategic Initiatives.

Carley opened the session by providing an overview of OCHN's role as both the Community Mental Health Services Program Authority and the prepaid inpatient health plan in Oakland County. She emphasized the organization's commitment to serving individuals with severe mental health and substance use needs, as well as those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. OCHN has been a vital part of the behavioral health system in Michigan for over 60 years.

The meeting highlighted several key initiatives funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Carley outlined the focus areas for OCHN's strategic planning for 2026-2028, which include staffing and retention in the behavioral health workforce, quality of care, and integrated health care services. She noted the importance of partnerships with county commissioners, the public health department, and law enforcement in these initiatives.

Siri Sikora provided an update on the co-responder initiative, which pairs mental health professionals with law enforcement to respond to crisis situations. Since its inception in August 2021, the program has seen significant engagement, with over 800 referrals in just six months from four police departments. Currently, there are nine co-responders actively working across 16 communities, with plans to expand the program further.

Sikora also discussed the crisis intervention team (CIT) training program, which trains law enforcement officers to effectively manage crisis situations. The program has trained 261 officers through 13 sessions, supported by ARPA funding that allows agencies to backfill positions while officers attend training.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue enhancing mental health services and crisis intervention strategies in Oakland County, ensuring that community members receive the necessary support and resources. The committee plans to follow up on these initiatives in future meetings, reinforcing the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders in public health and safety.