Right Response Unit (RRU)

call center operator in blue

This unit embeds a social worker from Columbus Public Health in the Emergency 911 Call Center to assist with triaging calls and determining the best response to de-escalate crisis situation and connect patient with appropriate resource to resolve crisis situation. 

Social Workers are available Monday-Friday 8:30-Midnight by calling 911 or calling the non- emergency line 614-645-4545, Option 3. 

 

 

About

This unit embeds a social worker from Columbus Public Health in the Emergency 911 Call Center to assist with triaging calls and determining the best response. Instead of a traditional police or fire response to every call, this program identifies the specific needs of the caller- whether it’s mental health support, addiction services, or other social service needs, ultimately providing the caller with the most appropriate available resource. For calls that still require a traditional police or fire response, the Alternative Response professionals have been able to de-escalate volatile situations and provide pre-arrival instructions before officers or paramedics arrive at the scene.

 

How it works

Connecting 911 callers to appropriate mental health and Substance Abuse Disorder (SAD) resources

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  • Caller contacts 911 or self directs via the non-emergency line (614-645-4545), option 3. Email RRU@columbus.gov (Non-Emergency).
  • Dispatcher determines if situation involves a potential mental health and/or SUD crisis.
  • Caller is transferred to the RRU Clinician.
  • Clinicians conduct an assessment, attempt to stabilize and de-escalate the situation.
  • If needed, clinicians work with 911 Dispatchers and CFD Paramedics to dispatch the appropriate Public Safety personnel to the scene.

 

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