Guam AOT - Section A: Population of Focus and Statement of Need A.1 Our population of focus are adults with serious mental illness (SMQ who meet specific criteria for AOT as identified in the legal framework of Chapter 82A Assisted Outpatient Treatment also known as the Baby Alexa Law for individuals who, due to the symptoms of SMI, become either dangerous or incapable of making informed medical decisions concerning their treatment. Voluntary outpatient treatment has not been effective and therefore a need for involuntary outpatient commitment treatment is necessary. Guam's statue states that individuals who are eligible for petition for AOT are 1. 18 years of age or older, 2. Suffering from a mental illness, 3. Is an inpatient client or a client transitioning out ofMental Health Court, 4. Is an outpatient client or was a former client who is being treated or has been treated for mental illness at the GBWHC, and 5. Is unlikely to survive safely in the community without supervision, based on clinical determination, and 6. Has a history of poor treatment compliance for mental illness that has (a) been a significant factor in his or her being in a hospital, prison or jail at least twice within the last thirty-six months or (b) resulted in one or more acts, attempts or threats of serious violent behavior toward self or others within the last forty-eight months, and 7. As a result of mental illness is unlikely to voluntarily participate in outpatient treatment that would enable him or her to live safely in the community, and 8. be in view of his or her treatment and current behavior, in need of AOT in order to prevent relapse or deterioration which would likely result in a substantial risk of physical harm to self or others, and 9. Be likely to benefit from AOT. The proposed area of focus for the implementation of AOT is the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center (GBHWC). GBHWC is the island's single state mental health agency. Services provided through this funding will be for all employees and adult consumers, indirectly serving the entirety of the island of Guam. GBHWC services include inpatient/crisis stabilization, outpatient, and residential services. Psychiatry, psychology, pharmacy, case management, counseling and mobile response are specialized services that support the SMI population. GBHWC also operates the 988 Lifeline Center and provides community outreach and education through its prevention and training unit.
