Virginia is transforming its behavioral health crisis system into a fully integrated, statewide continuum of services based on the Crisis Now Model, to ensure that every Virginian in crisis has someone to call, someone who’ll respond to them, and somewhere to go when they need help. Consistent with SAMHSA’s best practice model, the 988 crisis call centers will be the central point of “air traffic control.”

As of December 15, 2023:

• The 988 Crisis Call Centers will assess each call to determine if a Mobile Crisis Response is indicated per The Department of Medical Assistance Services’ Mental Health Services Provider Manual Chapter 12: Appendix G
• A dispatch will only occur if the 988 Crisis Call Centers determine a mobile crisis response is appropriate.
• Providers will not be able to directly initiate Mobile Crisis Response in Virginia Crisis Connect.
• Providers of Mobile Crisis Response will be dispatched to referrals via Virginia Crisis Connect.
• The Mobile Crisis Response provider dispatched to an individual by the 988 Call Center or regional crisis hub will be based on the provider’s proximity and their ability to respond in a timely manner.

For more information or questions about this process, please reach out to the Regional Crisis Hub that manages dispatch for your area. Click on your region below to find the appropriate contact information.