“Pennsylvania has allowed counties to adopt assisted outpatient treatment since 2018, but nearly all of the state’s 67 counties have opted out every year, citing cost and staffing concerns. Aside from Allegheny, only five counties – Bucks, Dauphin, Carbon, Monroe and Pike – have operational assisted outpatient treatment programs.
Allegheny County describes assisted outpatient treatment as a “step down” from inpatient care, a “step up” before a 302 becomes necessary, or a “step over” from the criminal justice system into civil treatment. It carries no criminal penalties – a judge can hold a review hearing, change the plan or order a new evaluation, but the person can’t be jailed for noncompliance alone. If someone becomes an immediate danger, the county can still use the 302 process.
Assisted outpatient treatment is intended to help people remain safely in their community while a court keeps the case open. An assisted outpatient treatment petition can be filed by a family member, provider or other concerned party. If a petition is granted, the order lasts up to 90 days. ”
What Allegheny County’s new court-ordered mental health treatment program can and can’t do