pages: CityCouncil/2021-09-21.pdf, 22
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CityCouncil | 2021-09-21 | 22 | background of the engagement process; AFD has held discussions with APD in order to convey proper roles; AFD will work to de-escalate situations; if a weapon is involved or an individual is violent at the onset, AFD will need to ensure the safety of the scene and allow APD to secure the area; AFD has been transporting mental health patients since 1982; the transport process is not new to AFD; the program allows AFD to expand options and get people to the correct place; AFD's options are not limited to 5150 calls with transport to psychiatric facilities; under the pilot program, AFD will now have options which include treatment and release; AFD can refer and release known clients through AFS handling a caseload and providing follow-up; outlined various issues AFD will potentially encounter; stated an office space for AFS is already available in the community paramedic office and a clinician will be in the office Monday through Friday. Vice Mayor Vella inquired whether the clinician being present will allow AFD to provide follow-up and ensure the client has been seen as part of the refer and release program. The Deputy Fire Chief responded in the affirmative; stated the presence will be a large part of the success of the program; there is currently no follow-up care for clients being taken to a psychiatric ward on a 5150 call; the proposed program will be one of a kind for California and the area; San Francisco is providing a similar program with a high success rate. Vice Mayor Vella expressed support for the program breakdown; stated the details provide a more digestible understanding; she would like to ensure the Quality Assurance Board does not include AFS as part of the Board; it is important to not have AFS reviewing itself. The Interim Fire Chief stated the Quality Assurance Board is available for each AFD program; the oversight is part of the process where AFD reviews what is done and where improvements can be made; AFD is working in collaboration with AFS and should review the process together; staff has discussed the prospect of having an open public meeting or committee meeting where AFD can potentially host a question and answer event; AFD would like to remain as transparent as possible regarding the program's health and operation; data reporting will be coming from both AFD and AFS sources; AFD has robust internal data and records management; outlined patient care reports; stated that he would like to be able to answer community questions, as appropriate; quality assurance is a large part of the organization. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether there is a place for peer review in the program process. The Deputy Fire Chief responded AFD staff will follow the San Francisco Crisis Mobile Units' peer review model; a ride along with the San Francisco Mobile Unit will occur; ACPH and ACEMS will also review the AFD pilot program, including data and responses review; outlined training; noted some of the staff who volunteered for the training are veterans. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council September 21, 2021 18 | CityCouncil/2021-09-21.pdf |