Mental Health Response Team Reports 80 Percent Crisis Resolution Success Rate

The Miami-Dade County Behavioral Health Advisory Board convened on July 29, 2025, to discuss significant developments in mental health crisis intervention and the impact of the Mobile Response Team (MRT) on community care. The meeting highlighted key statistics and outcomes related to the Baker Act, a Florida law allowing for involuntary mental health treatment.

The discussion opened with a report indicating that 9% of individuals assessed under the Baker Act were declined treatment. The board noted a substantial decrease in Baker Act initiations by School Resource Officers (SROs), which dropped significantly from the 2022-2023 fiscal year to the 2023-2024 fiscal year. This decline is attributed to the implementation of the MRT model response team, which began tracking data this year.

The MRT's effectiveness was underscored by the revelation that 80% of crisis calls were resolved without hospitalization, demonstrating the team's ability to de-escalate situations effectively. The board emphasized the importance of providing a less traumatic experience for individuals in crisis, noting that MRT offers unique ambulance services to enhance patient agency during transport.

Follow-up care was another focal point of the meeting. The board reported that 92% of follow-ups conducted by peer support specialists were successful, leading to a low recidivism rate of 8%. This success is attributed to the strong connections formed between the MRT and community members, fostering trust and encouraging individuals to seek help when needed.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of MRT's guiding principles, which prioritize trauma-informed care, community trust, and cultural competency. The board emphasized the importance of keeping services within the community and ensuring that individuals receive support in the least restrictive environments possible.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the positive impact of the MRT on mental health crisis intervention in Miami-Dade County, showcasing a commitment to improving outcomes for individuals in need of mental health support. The board plans to continue monitoring these developments and enhancing services to further reduce the need for involuntary hospitalization.