Magen David Adom Australia

2 weeks ago

New Pilot Program: Magen David Adom and the Ministry of Health Join Forces to Address Mental Health Emergencies and Suicide Prevention

Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency organization, is launching a new pilot in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to improve responses to mental health crises and suicide prevention. This initiative is based on the understanding that mental health emergencies, like physical ones, require immediate and professional intervention to prevent harm to individuals and their surroundings.

Starting in the Tel Aviv District, calls to MDA's 101 emergency call center related to mental health or suicide prevention will undergo a detailed assessment by trained responders. Depending on urgency, cases will be classified as “red” (high-priority) or “yellow/green” (lower priority). Immediate interventions will be handled by a crisis team, including a specially trained paramedic and a mental health professional, supported by a telemedicine psychiatrist.

This pilot integrates emergency mental health care with the expertise of MDA, creating a comprehensive response model. The ultimate goal is to ensure rapid, effective care in critical moments, minimizing potential harm to patients and their communities.

Eli Bin, MDA Director-General, emphasized, “This pilot marks a significant step forward in Israel's emergency healthcare system, ensuring both physical and mental health are prioritized. We look forward to expanding this essential program nationwide.”

Together, we aim to offer hope, care, and support to those in need of treatment for both physical and mental illness or injury.

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