B.C. expands HealthIM mental health screening tool to more regions by 2026

British Columbia is expanding its use of the HealthIM mental health screening tool to more regions. Starting on Wednesday, May 25, 2026, the system will roll out in Thompson and Shuswap, following its success in other parts of the province. The move aims to improve how police respond to mental health crises in real time. The HealthIM tool guides officers through structured questions to assess individuals in distress. It helps determine whether a person should be taken to an emergency room or directed to community-based support. The system also flags violent behaviour and ensures clearer communication between police and healthcare workers.

The province is funding the expansion with $2 million annually. This will support its adoption across all municipal police departments and RCMP detachments in B.C. HealthIM is already in use in southern Vancouver Island, Prince George, the East Kootenays, Port Moody, Nelson, Delta, and Surrey. RCMP Supt. Michelle Tansey praised the tool for enabling more compassionate crisis responses. The system has also been adopted in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. The Canadian Press first reported on the expansion on May 22, 2026.

The expansion of HealthIM means more officers will have access to a structured mental health screening process. The tool is designed to improve decision-making during crises and strengthen coordination between law enforcement and healthcare providers. The province’s investment reflects its commitment to enhancing mental health support in policing.