The Los Angeles City Fire Department has recommended discontinuing a pilot program that aimed to test alternatives to traditional police and fire responses for mental Health emergencies. The program, known as the “Therapeutic Van” program, was introduced in response to public demands for police reform following the murder of George Floyd. However, a report by LAFD Assistant Chief Peter Hsiao found that the program had minimal impact on reducing call volumes, as mental health crisis patients often presented with additional medical, violence, or substance abuse issues.
Former LA Mayor Eric Garcetti initially proposed the program in October 2020, with the intention of removing police from certain mental health calls to prevent escalations to violence. Despite delays and challenges in coordinating between the Fire Department and the LA County Department of Mental Health, the vans began responding to calls in early 2022. However, limitations in the training of DMH staff led to a lack of relief for overworked paramedics.
The LAFD report highlighted the need for additional resources to support paramedics and suggested that the funds allocated for the van program would be better utilized elsewhere. The total expenditure for the pilot program was approximately $4 million, as authorized by the City Council.
The Department of Mental Health declined to comment on the LAFD’s recommendation. Moving forward, the Fire Department is exploring various strategies to increase the number of paramedics on staff to better handle emergency situations in the city.
This development underscores the ongoing challenges in providing effective and comprehensive care for individuals experiencing mental health crises, highlighting the complex intersection of public safety, healthcare, and emergency response services.
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