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Tri-Valley providers, including Axis Community Health, have responded to the increasing need for mental health service by expanding capacity for ongoing treatment. However, there is still not enough resources and services to meet the demand. Families that have health insurance face a confusing array of options for services that requires an intake process and often results in placement on a waiting list for services. Uninsured patients have limited choices for services and because service providers are overburdened, often face delays in accessing care. Patients and families are left with the choice of calling 911, utilizing an emergency room for immediate treatment, navigating a complicated delivery system, or waiting until an appointment with their provider is available. In response to these substantial gaps in access to care and coordinated support, Axis Community Health is proposing to piloting a Mental Health Urgent Care Center, in partnership with the Cities of Dublin, Livermore and Pleasanton. DISCUSSION The Mental Health Urgent Care Center pilot project will be available to all members of the community, regardless of income or insurance status. Individuals and families with urgent mental health needs will be able to call for same-day appointments. During the COVID-19 pandemic, services will be provided vial telehealth; long-term plans would include a walk-in access point as well. The center will serve as a central entry point for assessment, triage, treatment, and care coordination for anyone seeking mental health treatment, regardless of insurant type or status. Like a medical urgent care setting, Axis Mental Health Urgent Care Center will provide assessment and timely connection to services in a setting that is less costly than an emergency department. Patients visiting the Center will be assessed to determine where their condition falls in the diagnostic range that includes: 1) mild to moderate, 2) moderate, or 3) severe. Typically, the majority of patients in a community setting are in the mild to moderate range. It is anticipated that the majority of the patients that use the Center will be treatable at the site and/or via telehealth services. A small percentage (estimated at 5%) will require medication prior to being able to benefit from treatment. Under the guidance of the program's psychiatrist, these patients will be referred to higher levels of care. Staff will have the ability to conduct assessments for patients presenting with suicidal thinking and will deescalate and avert 5150s when possible. Axis's behavioral health providers are experienced at intervening when suicidal thoughts are presented, and most often, following careful assessment and development of a safety plan, a 5150 can be avoided. Next steps If the City Council approves MOU and funding, city staff will work with all parties to execute necessary agreements and contracts. Page 4 of 5