Access to Care: A Community Approach to Reducing Crime

Did you know that providing access to care can actually deter people from committing crimes? It makes communities safer.

How It Works

When support is given for mental health issues, substance use problems, housing, and other fundamental needs, individuals are far less likely to re-enter the judicial system. This approach is being implemented in Yavapai County, which is focused on supportive interventions.

“Our aim is to reduce recidivism, so we concentrate on people already involved with the judicial system,” explained Beya Thayer, who leads the Yavapai Judicial and Mental Health Coalition. “We want to provide the necessary support to help break the cycle.”

Health Support to Break the Cycle

A re-entry connection center has been established next to Prescott Jail, making it the second facility for re-entry in Camp Verde. This center serves as a point of contact where individuals can engage with community navigators and peer support specialists immediately after their release.

“It’s essentially a one-stop shop,” said Thayer. “Many who are released don’t really know where to start. They can access services like housing, transportation, clothing, and hygiene products.”

Since 2021, Arizona Health Choice, which is associated with Blue Cross Blue Shield, has invested over $650,000 in Yavapai County to support these re-entry programs, aiming to build safer, healthier communities.

“The funding has allowed community behavioral health partners to coordinate with the prisoner services department to manage cases while individuals are still incarcerated, ensuring a smoother transition into needed services,” Thayer noted.

Community Investments Making a Difference

Such investments have led to significant improvements. Yavapai County has seen its lowest daily inmate count in nearly ten years, even as the county population rose by about 9%. Interestingly, the prison numbers have decreased by 9% since 2017.

“Ideally, both should increase at the same rate, but that’s not what we’re seeing,” Thayer remarked.

“It’s inspiring to see these long-term investments yield positive results in Yavapai County,” said Dr. Heather Carter, CEO of Arizona Health Choice. “Connecting people with care not only makes an impact but enhances community safety. I’m proud to be part of this initiative.”

Prevention is Key

What drives the frequent changes in the jail population? Unstable housing and untreated mental health issues are chief among them.

“Those who report higher levels of substance use and mental health challenges tend to return at much higher rates,” Thayer explained. “And, unfortunately, those lacking safe, consistent housing have the highest return rates overall.”

Thayer emphasized the importance of providing timely support before individuals enter the judicial system. “When someone finds themselves involved with the judicial system, we want to intervene sooner, ideally staying ahead to prevent trouble in the first place.”

A Shift in Yavapai County’s Approach

“We depend on our community partners,” Thayer said. “Behavioral health and social determinants of health, like housing, don’t always align, so collaboration is crucial. We can’t achieve our goals without it.”

For more information about these reinvestment efforts, visit the appropriate site.