LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – A new 988 call center is coming to Southern Nevada.
Right now, the only 988 call center in Nevada is in Reno. The Nevada Board of Examiners approved a $49.7 million contract with Carelon Behavioral Health to join the network in about six months.
“Nevada continues to refine, expand, and improve our implementation of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to support Nevadans,” said Governor Joe Lombardo. “Under this partnership, Nevada’s 988 Lifeline will be able to handle a much higher volume of callers and provide faster service. With help only a short call, text, or chat away, Nevadans who are struggling will have greater access to essential resources to support them when they need it the most.”
Nevadans could reach the 988 Lifeline 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling or texting 988 or through visiting 988Lifeline.org. Callers will be connected to a trained counselor.
“At Carelon, we have a passion for providing effective crisis response partnerships and are thrilled to be helping support Nevada take this important next step,” Carelon Behavioral Health CEO Briana Duffy said. “We look forward to working with the Division of Public and Behavioral Health to develop 988 infrastructure that addresses the unique needs of the Silver State.”
Following the rollout with Carelon, 988 Crisis Counselors will be co-located with 911 dispatchers in both Clark and Washoe counties. This will allow 911 and 988 calls to be transferred between both services, so callers receive the best response for their individual need.
Crisis Support Center Services of Nevada in Reno is the only call center as of November.
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