B.C. expands mental health tool to help police assess crises faster

British Columbia is expanding access to a mental health screening tool for police officers. Starting Wednesday, HealthIM will be available in the Thompson and Shuswap regions. The province is also funding its rollout with $2 million each year.

HealthIM helps officers assess people in crisis by guiding them through a series of questions. It determines whether someone should go to an emergency room or be directed to community-based services. The tool also improves how police collect and share information, including flagging violent behaviour.

The system is already in use across southern Vancouver Island, Prince George, the East Kootenays, Port Moody, Nelson, Delta, and Surrey. RCMP Supt. Michelle Tansey praised the expansion, saying it allows officers to respond with greater compassion in real time. Beyond B.C., HealthIM is available in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. The province’s funding ensures its continued rollout to municipal police departments and RCMP detachments across B.C.

The expansion means more officers will have access to a tool designed to improve crisis response. HealthIM aims to streamline decision-making while ensuring people in distress receive the right support. The province’s annual funding will help maintain and grow the programme in the coming years.