The DART Program provides tailored, on-site medical assessment and response within Arrest Processing Units (APUs), supporting the safe, timely care of individuals in custody while strengthening operational efficiency and continuity of care.

DART is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing APU operations. Rather than applying a fixed or standardized model, each DART program is custom-built to align with the operational realities, policies, and responsibilities of the host agency and its healthcare partners.

How DART Works

Consultation and Needs Assessment

The DART process begins with a structured consultation and needs assessment conducted in collaboration with APU leadership. This phase focuses on understanding operational pressures, common medical presentations, risk areas, and existing processes for assessment, treatment, and transfer.

A gap analysis is conducted to identify where additional medical presence, clinical oversight, or system coordination can improve safety, efficiency, and continuity of care within the APU environment.

Stakeholder Engagement

DART is developed through active engagement with all relevant stakeholders. Depending on the setting, this may include law enforcement leadership, custody staff, healthcare partners, remand medical services, and administrative teams.

These discussions ensure shared understanding, clearly defined roles and responsibilities, and strong communication pathways—key elements for safe and effective care delivery in custodial settings.

Program Design and Integration

Based on the collaborative assessment, a DART model is custom-designed for the specific APU. This includes defining:

  • Scope of medical services

  • Clinical workflows and assessment processes

  • Documentation and information-sharing practices

  • Escalation and transfer pathways

  • Integration with remand facilities and external healthcare services

The program is structured to deliver timely medical assessment and treatment within the APU while supporting continuity of care when individuals are transferred to remand or other facilities.

Implementation and Ongoing Adaptation

DART is implemented in a way that complements existing operations and supports frontline staff. The program is designed to adapt over time as operational demands, population needs, or system requirements evolve—ensuring it remains practical, effective, and aligned with the client’s environment.