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Virtual crisis care helps rural communities access mental health resources in emergencies

In 2025, the Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police launched a Virtual Crisis Care pilot after a $2.4 grant from The Helmsley Charitable Trust, expanding telehealth for rural law enforcement.
Expanding on-demand access to clinicians addresses historical gaps, as Thompson noted that 25 years ago, jails were the only option for emergency detentions, now Virtual Crisis Care offers local outpatient services.
Implemented in South Dakota since 2020, the program helps 86% of individuals remain safely at home, with nurses at Avel eCare providing 24/7 support and averaging 17 years of clinical experience.
Reints noted that receiving care at home helps patients avoid ER wait trauma, while de-escalation is enhanced by Virtual Crisis Care addressing rural service gaps, as Appel said.
WASCOP aims for 75% agency participation within three years, having already reached about 25% in the first year, while Thompson remains committed to long-term programming beyond the grant.

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