Dr. E. Fuller Torrey�s Nov. 25 letter contains valuable information and data which deal with the need for treatment for people suffering from major mental illnesses. The bad news for Idaho lies in the reduction of services, Medicaid-slashing proposals and inadequate funding for treatment.

The good news, which usually remains a secret, is that Idaho has a law which allows for assisted outpatient treatment. However, other than a couple of counties, this has not been utilized. In Latah County, the process has worked successfully, and we have attempted to convince other counties to follow the model.

Secondly, to avoid unnecessary jailing and promote treatment, Idaho Falls has implemented a mental health court. This program has been endorsed by law enforcement, county prosecutors, jailers, probation personnel and advocates. Judge Moss conducts the hearings. It coordinates around a Region VII Assertive Community Treatment team in Idaho Falls, which is responsible for the court-ordered treatment.