Program of Assertive Community Treatment (PACT)
PACT is for people with severe mental health disorders, who frequently need care in a psychiatric hospital or other crisis service. These clients often have challenges with traditional services and may have a high risk or history of arrest and incarceration.
How does PACT work?
PACT serves up to 1,800 people statewide through effective and intensive outreach services. These services are evidence-based, recovery-oriented, and provided through a team approach.
Full teams serve up to 100 people and half teams serve up to 50 people. With small caseloads, PACT teams can address each person's needs and strengths to provide the right care at the right time.
Services are provided by a multidisciplinary team of professionals including mental health professionals, registered nurses, peer supports, and a psychiatric care provider. Up to 85 percent of services are available within communities.
Is the program reviewed?
Yes. Fidelity program reviews are conducted at least once a year to measure progress with the following goals:
- Reduce the need for care within state hospitals.
- Increase satisfaction and quality of life.
- Decrease the use of community inpatient and crisis services.
- Increase employment.
- Reduce involvement with criminal justice.
PACT statewide expansion
To enhance PACT services, the legislature mandated that HCA stand up a total of eight new PACT teams. To date, there are four full and two half teams. These teams provide service to 4,500 new individuals. HCA will add two more full teams in 2021.
The goal of expanding PACT teams is to increase the capacity to serve the most vulnerable and keep individuals out of state hospitals.
Selected PACT teams by year and region
2020
- King: Ikron
- Pierce: Greater Lakes
- North Sound: Lifeline Connections
- Greater Health Now: Comprehensive
- Great Rivers: Cascade
2021
- Pierce: Comprehensive Life Resources
- Spokane: Frontier Behavioral Health (services starting late fall 2021)
Selected teams will add capacity for an additional 7,400 people served.
Note: HCA has a role in standing up individual PACT teams, but does not operate them. To find a PACT team provider, view our active team directory.