Telehealth options for law enforcement

Officers have access to mental health professionals through tablet devices, which can be used in the field during mental health-related encounters. People involved in these encounters can speak with mental health professionals who conduct appropriate interventions virtually.

Local Examples

Harris County, TX Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) and The Harris Center for Mental Health & IDD

• The Clinician & Officer Remote Evaluation (CORE) supports HCSO’s deputies with tablet-based access to masters-level clinicians for consultation during encounters with people in mental health crisis.
• The clinicians conduct evaluations virtually and have access to a psychiatrist if needed.
• The clinician and on-scene deputy work together to decide on the appropriate disposition.

For more information on this example, see these resources:

• Telehealth, Harris County Sheriff’s Office
• Telehealth Implementation Guide, Harris County Sheriff’s Office