New Study Highlights Lifesaving and Economic Benefits of Community Mental Health Services

INcompass Healthcare is a regional healthcare organization dedicated to serving the residents of Dearborn, Franklin, Ripley, Ohio, and Switzerland County.

(Lawrenceburg, Ind.) - INcompass Healthcare, along with the Indiana Council of Community Mental Health Centers (ICCMHC) is excited to share the findings of a new study, conducted by Blue & Co., which showcases the tremendous value and impact that Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs) have on individuals, families, and communities across the state of Indiana.

The study reveals a compelling return on investment (ROI), demonstrating that for every dollar spent on community mental health services, there is a significant and measurable benefit to society. These findings highlight the critical role CMHCs and crisis units play in improving mental health outcomes, reducing emergency room visits, preventing costly hospitalizations, major impact on jails, and supporting individuals in living healthier, more fulfilling lives.

"The findings of this study underscore the profound impact Community Mental Health Centers have on the well-being of individuals and the health of our communities," said Greg Duncan, President and CEO of INcompass Healthcare. "By providing timely, effective crisis services and community-based care, we not only save lives but also create significant cost savings for healthcare and criminal justice systems. At INcompass Healthcare, we are proud to be part of a statewide effort that ensures people in need receive the right care at the right time, fostering healthier, more resilient communities across Indiana."

"The findings of this study underscore the profound impact Community Mental Health Centers have on the well-being of individuals and the health of our communities," said Greg Duncan, President and CEO of INcompass Healthcare. "At INcompass Healthcare, we see firsthand how vital locally provided crisis services are to the people we serve. By delivering timely, effective care within our own communities, we not only save lives but also create significant cost savings for our healthcare and criminal justice systems. These local services allow us to be there for our neighbors when they need us most, helping them find hope and healing close to home."

The study, which involved a comprehensive analysis of data from CMHCs throughout Indiana, found that these centers are not only essential to mental well-being but also a smart investment in the long-term health of the state’s economy. Key findings from the study include:

• Reduced healthcare costs: Community mental health centers help decrease the need for emergency room visits and inpatient hospitalizations, reducing overall healthcare spending.

• Crisis services vs. Inpatient hospitalization: Community mental health centers – crisis services have had an annualized savings of $80,867,002. This has been accomplished by providing timely, effective mental health interventions, reducing the need for more costly emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and law enforcement involvement. By focusing on community-based care, including mobile crisis units and 988, Indiana has been able to prevent costly institutional care and ensure individuals in crisis receive the appropriate support, ultimately lowering healthcare and criminal justice system expenses.

• Crisis services vs. Jail: Crisis services in Indiana have saved the state an annualized $45 million in jail services by diverting individuals with mental health crises away from jails and into appropriate care. Through programs like mobile crisis units and mental health treatment, individuals in need of mental health services receive timely interventions that prevent arrests and reduce the need for incarceration. This approach not only improves outcomes for those in crisis but also lowers the financial burden on the criminal justice system.

• INcompass Healthcare crisis services: Our 24/7 crisis line provides immediate assistance and can dispatch a mobile crisis unit to meet individuals in the community and address urgent needs. Additionally, our Crisis Care Center, open to individuals of all ages, provides a safe and welcoming space to navigate and resolve crises. Since opening in late April 2024 through November 2024, we have helped over 900 people in our community.

This study serves as an important reminder of the value of prioritizing mental health and investing in the services that make a real difference in people’s lives.