The Bond County Board of Health discussed a recent decision by the Illinois Department of Human Services to shift funding for mental health crisis response services to a larger, out-of-county provider during its meeting Monday evening.
Board members expressed concern that the change could affect the long-standing collaboration among local emergency responders who have worked together for years to provide rapid intervention during mental health emergencies.
Health Department Administrator Sean Eifert reported that an appeal of the state’s decision has been filed. The Illinois Department of Human Services has up to 60 days to respond. In the meantime, the agency has offered a three-month crisis wind-down grant beginning July 1.
