The Austin Public Health Committee meeting on June 4, 2025, highlighted the launch of a new mental health diversion pilot program aimed at providing alternatives for individuals experiencing mental health crises. This initiative, a collaborative effort involving Travis County, the City of Austin, Central Health, and Integral Care, seeks to address pressing community needs by creating a comprehensive diversion system.

The pilot program is designed to reduce the number of individuals cycling through the criminal justice and emergency healthcare systems due to unmet mental health needs. By offering timely interventions and support, the initiative aims to improve public safety and enhance outcomes for those affected by mental health issues, including individuals experiencing homelessness.

Key goals of the pilot include realigning community resources, developing effective partnerships, and establishing referral pathways to ensure that individuals receive the appropriate care. The program is expected to leverage existing services while identifying gaps in the current system to better serve the community.

The budget for the pilot spans three years, with projected costs of approximately $26.4 million. Funding sources include contributions from Travis County, the City of Austin, and Central Health, with each partner's financial support deemed critical for the program's sustainability. The committee emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to maximize the impact of the pilot.

In addition to the diversion pilot, the meeting also touched on ongoing efforts to enhance mental health services in the community, including the establishment of a bridge clinic program that connects patients to primary care services. This initiative aims to address the healthcare needs of individuals who may not have established care, further supporting the overarching goals of the diversion program.

As the pilot moves forward, the committee expressed optimism about its potential to create meaningful change in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges, ultimately contributing to a healthier and safer Austin community.