Since 2020, Denver, Colorado, has been operating a crisis-response program known as STAR (Support Team Assisted Response). The STAR program pairs paramedics and behavioral health professionals on designated vans to respond to certain 911 calls in lieu of a conventional response from law enforcement or other first responders. The STAR van teams work to de-escalate the immediate crisis and make referrals to a network of community-based service providers through the STAR Community Coalition. The STAR program offers an alternative to having police respond to behavioral health crises--reducing the potential for clients to experience additional trauma--and connects clients with resources that can help them obtain stability and address their longer-term service needs.
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