NEWTON, NJ (Sussex County) – Atlantic Health System’s Newton Medical Center has announced a pioneering initiative aimed at reshaping responses to mental health crises and reducing instances of violence.
The Alternative Responses to Reduce Instances of Violence and Escalation (ARRIVE) Together program launched in Sussex this past January and is led by The New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, marking a significant milestone in the intersection of law enforcement and behavioral health care.
The ARRIVE Together program heralds a new era of collaboration between county police departments and behavioral health professionals, fostering stronger relationships to better address the needs of individuals in crisis. By integrating law enforcement and mental health expertise, the initiative seeks to provide more compassionate and effective responses to mental health emergencies.
“The launch of the ARRIVE Together program in Sussex County represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to promote mental health awareness and enhance community safety,” said Geralda Xavier, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Newton and Hackettstown Medical Centers. “By working together with law enforcement, we can create a more empathetic response to individuals in crisis.”
Newton Medical Center, serving as the designated psychiatry screening center for Sussex County, plays a pivotal role in the success of the ARRIVE Together program. With its specialized resources and expertise, the medical center will facilitate timely assessments and interventions for individuals requiring behavioral health support.
Under the ARRIVE Together program, law enforcement officers will proactively engage in identifying individuals who may benefit from behavioral health intervention during emergency calls. Officers will call Newton Medical Center’s crisis hotline to let them know that a patient needs to be seen and will then coordinate the outreach. This proactive approach aims to de-escalate situations and connect individuals with appropriate mental health services, fostering a safer and more supportive community environment.
This program underscores Newton Medical Center’s commitment to innovation and community partnership. Through collaborative efforts and proactive initiatives, Newton Medical Center and its partners are dedicated to making meaningful strides in supporting mental health and promoting well-being throughout Sussex County.
