| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2/15/2010 |
Contact: Scranton Times 570-348-9100 info@thetimestribune.com |
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EDITORIAL: ESTABLISH 211 PHONE SYSTEM Published: February 15, 2010 http://thetimes-tribune.com/opinion/establish-211-phone-system-1.618948 Pennsylvania is one of only two states without a 211 phone system for social service referrals, even though the commonwealth's relatively high average age and other demographics constitute an obvious need for the service. Such a system would eliminate the need for people in need of assistance to dial seven- or 10-digit numbers. But even more important is that it would create a clearinghouse where people could obtain information and services without being bounced from number to number. Added benefits of such a system would be universal, statewide access and elimination of social-service calls to the 911 system, leaving that operation to its intended purpose of dealing with emergencies. Last week the state Public Utility Commission assigned the number, 211, to a nonprofit group that is trying to establish the system. It includes United Way agencies and social service providers. The issue is funding. The system can't be a great idea that nobody wants to finance. In some other states, funding such systems is a perpetual problem even as they improve and save lives through timely referrals for everything from mental health issues to utility shut-offs. The 911 system is funded through substantial assessments on telephone lines. An effective 211 system could be partially funded with a nominal increase in those charges, along with contributions from county and city governments and private parties, such as insurers, with an interest in effective delivery of social service. Policymakers should look at the issue not only in terms of cost, but in terms of the value that such a system would provide by increasing the efficiency of social service delivery. |