Michigan cooperative agreement to improve local 988 capacity - in july of 2022, michigan took a significant step forward in prioritizing mental health by announcing the launch of the new 988 number

The initiative aims at revolutionizing the state's mental health crisis response by strengthening and expanding the network of crisis call centers and ensuring timely and effective support for all individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or any behavioral health related distress. Since the start of 988's go-live in july 2022, metrics have shown that calls received by michigan call centers have steadily increased from 5,241 in june 2022 to 7,182 in june 2023. Before, during, and after 988's official go live, mdhhs has worked vigorously towards gradually increasing michigan's service infrastructure over the past year. Since december, michigan has consistently reached a 90% in state answer rate. Through the 988 state and territory improvement grant, our goals moving into the next year are to focus on expanding michigan's call center capabilities to answer 988 texts and chats, maintain michigan's in state answer rate of at least 90% for all 988 calls, work towards improving the quality of interactions between call takers and 988 callers, and ensure that we are tailoring and efficiently marketing 988 to fit all michiganders' needs, especially those considered high risk or underserved. This initiative will also involve continuing to maintain a close and collaborative relationship among state agencies, mental health organizations, community-based leaders, and stakeholders in order to establish a comprehensive and seamless system of care. With stable call infrastructure in place our new goal now is to focus on finding ways to improve the quality of services to all michigan residents, but especially those who may be considered to be at a heightened risk. Michigan's primary center, mical, is now ready to expand its' capabilities to begin taking texts and chats. Reports outlining 988 text and chat metrics have indicated that the state demand for chat and text went from 247 in may of 2022 to 2,277 in may of 2023, implying both public interest and the expanding need to incorporate chat and text answering capabilities into mical. Michigan has already invested considerable time and resources in the development and implementation of the 988 program. With additional funding provided through the "FY 2023 cooperative agreements for states and territories to improve local 988 capacity" grant, michigan will be able to have the opportunity to expand its 988 capabilities and resources and work towards improving and tailoring current processes.