Every state department of mental health is developing a plan to meet the requirements of the Olmstead Decision. Assertive community treatment is one option that should be a part of every state's Olmstead plan because ACT programs exist specifically to give consumers the choice of living in a community or in an institution. An ACT program can overcome the barriers to living in communities faced by people leaving, or being diverted from, admission to institutions. ACT provides individualized, flexible services that support people over time and work with the cyclic nature of serious, persistent, long-term mental illnesses. The continuing support of ACT team staff, who are known and trusted, can prevent some crises and help people hold onto housing and employment if symptoms worsen.
Adequate income is required for community living.
ACT staff help consumers enroll in programs so that they receive benefits such as Social Security and housing subsidies and find and keep employment. ACT fosters community integration. With team staff support available 365 days a year, ACT helps consumers live among the general public. Rather than thinking in terms of only group homes, ACT supports a wider range of integrated housing, which usually includes apartments. Nurses and the psychiatrist on the ACT team help consumers get adequate primary medical and dental care.