B.C. police adopt digital tool to improve mental health crisis response

British Columbia is expanding access to a digital mental health screening tool called HealthIM. Starting Wednesday, police in the Thompson and Shuswap regions will begin using the system. The province has already rolled it out in multiple areas, including southern Vancouver Island and parts of the Interior. HealthIM is designed to help officers assess individuals in crisis more effectively. The tool guides them through a series of questions to determine whether someone needs emergency care or can be directed to community-based services. It also improves the quality of information collected, ensuring better communication between police and healthcare workers.

The system has been implemented across all municipal departments and RCMP detachments in several regions, including Prince George, the East Kootenays, Port Moody, Nelson, Delta, and Surrey. Beyond British Columbia, HealthIM is also in use in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. RCMP Supt. Michelle Tansey has praised the tool, saying it allows officers to respond with greater compassion in real time. The province is funding the expansion with an annual investment of $2 million. Harwinder Sandhu, MLA for Vernon-Lumby, has also expressed support for bringing HealthIM to Interior regions. By improving crisis response, the tool helps officers better address mental health and substance abuse emergencies. It also flags violent behaviour, enhancing safety for healthcare staff when patients arrive at hospitals.

The expansion of HealthIM means more police departments across B.C. will have access to the tool. It aims to streamline crisis assessments and ensure individuals receive the right level of care. The province’s funding ensures ongoing support for the system’s rollout.