Washburn, WI – March 4, 2025 – Avel eCare is expanding its Crisis Care program into Wisconsin with the Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office, marking the first law enforcement agency in the state to implement the telemedicine service. This addition brings the total number of sites utilizing Avel eCare Crisis Care to 154 nationwide.
Providing Critical Support to Law Enforcement
Bayfield County deputies now have 24/7 access to behavioral health professionals via telemedicine, offering real-time de-escalation support, safety planning, and referrals to community resources. This program ensures individuals in crisis receive immediate care, reducing unnecessary hospitalizations and incarceration.
“This program enables us to assist individuals in crisis by offering immediate services, ensuring they receive the necessary resources from the comfort of their own home,” said Lt Tristan Kern from Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office.
“With our innovative technology, we are able to connect with law enforcement wherever they are dispatched, providing a mental health assessment for individuals in crisis,” said Amber Reints, Behavioral Health and Crisis Care leader at Avel eCare.
Connecting to Community Resources
Crisis Care strengthens local mental health support by partnering with Bayfield County’s Department of Human Services (DHS) to provide immediate referrals.
“The co-responder model of behavioral health providers responding with law enforcement is the gold standard. Avel’s Virtual Crisis Care team allows our deputies to respond with that same gold-level standard in rural communities,” said Tom Croteau, Behavioral Health and Community Programs section manager.
“Again, what we’re able to do is de-escalate, help them feel seen and heard, and create a safe space over technology,” added Reints.
A Growing National Impact
Avel eCare Crisis Care now operates in 154 locations, helping law enforcement manage mental health-related calls. With rising demand for crisis intervention, Avel eCare continues to expand access and improve mental health outcomes nationwide.