Are You Ready for 988 Calls?
For the new 988, nationwide 3-digit phone number, SierraGold by SAITM has customers covered.
The routing of 988 calls to directly connect with the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (the Lifeline) goes into effect July 16, 2022. Prior to 988 implementation, 82 Numbering Plan Areas (NPAs) with 988 as a valid exchange were transitioned to mandatory 10-digit dialing for local calls.
SierraGold by SAITM has already integrated the new dialing codes and tariffs into our products and services. This integration includes the 988 tariff rate, which is free for all 988 calls.
But… there is more you should consider.
Why 988?
Per the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2020 the United States experienced one death by suicide about every eleven minutes. And, for people aged 10-34 years, suicide is a leading cause of death.
SAMHSA is the lead federal agency, in partnership with the Federal Communications Commission and the Department of Veterans Affairs, working to bring 988 calling to reality.
988 provides an easy-to-remember, direct connection to care and support for anyone experiencing mental health related distress — whether it is thoughts of suicide, a mental health crisis, substance use crisis or any other type of emotional distress.
How Can SierraGold by SAI™ Help?
Employers care about their employees. They have a vested interested in wanting to help those in crisis.
SierraGold by SAI™ is here to assist via our WatchDog™ service. When enabled, WatchDog™ will identify and notify you in near-real time when anyone in your organization dials 988.
However, it doesn’t end there.
Want An Alert for Any Number?
During the transition to 988 as well as after, Americans who need help can continue to contact the Lifeline by dialing 1-800-273-8255 (1-800-273-TALK). Several other 10-digit, prevention hotlines also exist nationally and locally.
In addition to 988, WatchDogTM can be programmed to monitor and send near-real time alerts for any and all 10-digit numbers associated with a prevention hotline.
Need a WatchDog™ On Your Side?
SAI will help you set up WatchDog™ to monitor for extensions dialing 988, or any number of interest. Once activated, WatchDogTM will alert you in near-real time whenever it detects an employee places a call to a designated number.
Already using our WatchDog™ service? For a small set-up fee, SAI will configure your service for 988 call monitoring. Just provide the details, and let us do the work.
Whether you are new to WatchDog™ or already using it to guard your organization, contact us today to learn more.
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