Sacramento County is launching two major initiatives to expand Behavioral Health Services, aiming to streamline care and improve community well-being.
New Centralized Call Center Combines Mental Health and Substance Use Services
The new Behavioral Health Services-Screening and Coordination (BHS-SAC) Call Center consolidates multiple phone lines into a single, easy-to-remember number: 916-875-1055. This central hub integrates the Mental Health Access Team and the Substance Use Prevention and Treatment (SUPT) System of Care, providing a streamlined process for accessing critical mental health and substance use treatment services.
“The BHS-SAC Call Center is a game-changer for our community,” said Dr. Ryan Quist, Director of Behavioral Health. “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.”
The Call Center ensures individuals receive timely coordination among providers, helping improve health outcomes for those facing mental health and substance use challenges.
Expanded Psychiatric Hold Criteria Under SB 43
Sacramento County will also implement Senate Bill 43 (SB 43), a modernized state law that expands the criteria for involuntary psychiatric holds. The updated definition of “gravely disabled” now includes individuals unable to care for their basic needs due to severe substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
The law also broadens the scope of “basic needs” to include access to medical care, food, weather-appropriate clothing, shelter, and personal safety.
This expanded definition allows the County to provide acute and long-term care for vulnerable community members struggling with severe substance use disorders and related challenges.
A Commitment to Comprehensive Care
These initiatives reflect Sacramento County’s dedication to addressing homelessness, mental health crises, and substance abuse. By fostering collaboration between health services and community partners, the County aims to provide comprehensive care and support.
For more information on these programs, visit the Sacramento County Department of Health Services’ Behavioral Health website.
