New provincial funding being provided to support police responding to mental health calls will help improve overall public safety while protecting persons experiencing acute crisis, says Alberta Justice Minister Tyler Shandro.
During a press conference in Edmonton on Tuesday, Shandro said $1.6 million is being spent to support the rollout of the HealthIM system digital tool.
The tool is loaded onto the police officer’s mobile device, providing previously known police information about the person in crisis, including mental health and criminal history.
The information will help officers determine whether transportation under the Mental Health Act to a designated health facility is needed or if community-based services would be better suited to the particular situation, said Shandro.
“It is important to recognize that police are not mental health professionals and may not be the best equipped to handle mental health emergencies or crisis,” said Shandro.
“People who are in the middle of a mental health crisis present some of the most unpredictable situations that a police officer may face and these situations require far different tactics, far different approaches than those involving criminals, and mishandling a situation like that can result in tragedy.
“That is why it is important for police to have access to as much information about the individuals in question before they respond to a crisis.”
The HealthIM system will also help police “peacefully de-escalate difficult situations and ensure individuals receive appropriate care,” he said.
The tool also includes access to a pre-response safety briefing that includes de-escalation techniques, he said.
Mike Ellis, associate minister of Mental Health and Addictions, also took part in the press conference.
“HealthIM is an innovative digital tool that will support law enforcement officers to better access what help a person needs and to take appropriate action,” said Ellis.
“The HealthIM system will enhance safety, promote evidence-based decision-making, improve communication between law enforcement and health services, and lead to better outcomes for Albertans.”
Ron Anderson is chief innovative and technology officer and acting chief of police with the Edmonton Police Service.
“HealthIM will allow us to use a science-based health perspective to provide compassionate policing to our citizens experiencing mental health crisis,” Anderson said during Tuesday’s press conference.
“Knowing the history and possible triggers that an individual has can help our front-line members de-escalate a situation and prevent unnecessary contact for the individual with the criminal justice system.”
The Edmonton Police Service will start using the HealthIM tool in July, with other police forces in Alberta to follow in a rolled out approach throughout 2022.
