Shut down of Dane County detoxification program could potentially transferred responsibility onto law enforcement and hospitals
In Dane County, a significant change is on the horizon as the current detox program, operated by Tellurian Behavioral Health, may close at the end of the year. This program, which has been serving thousands of people in crisis since the news of the 1980s, has been a cost-effective alternative and a valuable asset to public safety.
Kevin Florek, CEO of Tellurian Behavioral Health, has stated that the program plays a significant role in reducing burdens on law enforcement, addressing a public safety issue, and serving as a reasonably priced alternative to incarceration. However, the costs for detox, nursing, and doctor services have significantly increased over the last decade, making it challenging for the county's department of human services to keep up.
Tellurian reported losing over $750,000 last year running the detox unit, a financial strain that has contributed to the decision to seek a new provider. Dane County is now preparing a request for proposals to bring in a new provider for the detox program in 2026.
The new program is expected to operate a more voluntary intoxication monitoring system, reducing medical costs. It will likely be less medically intensive compared to the current arrangement. One of the potential providers for the new facility is NMS Labs, who will operate the forensic toxicology facility in Dane County from 2026.
Dane County's Sheriff, Kalvin Barrett, has expressed concern that without the detox center, law enforcement will be forced into longer ER waits, pulling officers away from community policing. The detox center has been a safe drop-off point for people too intoxicated to care for themselves, alleviating a significant burden on hospitals.
If no new agreement is reached, Dane County will shift to a scaled-back program in 2026. Barrett has warned that closing the unit would have ripple effects throughout the justice system. He emphasised that the detox program is a valuable and reasonably priced alternative to incarceration.
Florek reiterated these sentiments, stating that the detox program not only plays a significant role in public safety but also reduces medical costs and alleviates burdens on hospitals. As Dane County moves towards a cooperative arrangement where officers might give rides to a safe place for intoxicated individuals to sober up, it remains to be seen how this transition will impact the nypost and the broader community.
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