Ozark Center Ranks Second in Missouri for Mobile Crisis Response
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JOPLIN, Mo. — Ozark Center has been recognized by the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) as the second-highest-performing mobile crisis response team in the state, highlighting its efforts to provide emergency mental health care throughout southwest Missouri.
Between July 2025 and July 2026, Ozark Center provided 1,479 Mobile Crisis Response (MCR) face-to-face interventions and telephone evaluations for individuals experiencing acute psychiatric or behavioral health emergencies. The team serves Jasper, Newton, McDonald and Barton counties.
According to DMH statistics, the only agency to provide more mobile crisis responses during that period was the Family Counseling Center in Poplar Bluff, which recorded 1,529 responses while serving seven counties in southeast Missouri.
"This recognition motivates us to continue growing, improving and strengthening access to crisis services for those who need us most," said Debbie Fitzgerald, director of Crisis Services.
Ozark Center, an entity of Freeman Health System, also ranked fourth in Missouri for its Access Crisis Intervention (ACI) services, receiving and answering 10,453 calls during the reporting period.
ACI provides support for urgent mental health, substance use and suicide-related crises, serving as part of the local crisis response system alongside the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Ozark Center achieved a 100% call answer rate, meaning the team answered every call it received. According to the organization, none of the three agencies ranked above it for call volume achieved the same rate.
"Being ranked second in the state for Mobile Crisis Response and fourth in the state for Access Crisis Intervention is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the dedication, compassion and commitment of our crisis services team," said Brandy Mann, Crisis Services Supervisor.
"These rankings represent more than numbers—they reflect the lives we touch, the individuals and families we support during their most difficult moments and our commitment to ensuring people receive timely, compassionate and effective mental health crisis care," Mann said.
Ozark Center Crisis Intervention Services provides 24-hour support to people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing personal, emotional or mental health crises. The services are designed to connect individuals with help when they need it most.
"We are incredibly proud of our team for the work they do every day to meet people where they are," Mann said. "We provide hope in moments of uncertainty and make a meaningful difference in our community."
