FORT ST. JOHN — A new digital tool aimed at improving how police respond to people in crisis is now in use across northeastern British Columbia.
HealthIM was launched June 17 at RCMP detachments in communities including Dawson Creek, Fort St. John and the Northern Rockies, as part of a provincewide rollout.
Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger says the system is already showing results in helping officers manage complex situations.
“HealthIM has proven to be a valuable asset to help police officers safely and effectively de-escalate complex situations by promoting safer interactions with people in crisis,” Krieger said.
The digital tool guides officers through a series of screening questions during mental-health or substance-use calls, helping assess risk and share information with health-care providers in real time.
Health Minister Josie Osborne says the system is designed to improve coordination between police and the health system.
“HealthIM helps support more trauma-informed responses by strengthening communication between police and health-care teams,” Osborne said. “This leads to better continuity of care… helping connect people to the supports they need, when they need them most.”
Early data from other parts of the province suggest the program is shifting more people toward medical care instead of custody.
In Prince George, apprehensions dropped significantly after the tool was introduced, while hospital admissions increased — indicating more people are being directed to appropriate care.
RCMP North District Commander Superintendent Keny Floyd says officers have already seen the benefits.
“We have seen first-hand how the HealthIM model improves efficiency, keeps officers focused on front-line policing and strengthens collaboration with our health partners,” Floyd said.
Northern Health officials say the rollout is also strengthening partnerships in the region.
“The launch of HealthIM represents an important step forward… improving communication and supporting safer transitions of care,” said Graham Hall, executive lead for mental health and substance use.
The province says the program has already been used in more than 10,500 calls in other jurisdictions and will continue expanding across northern B.C. in the coming months.