Background: A balanced model of in-patient care with community mental health services is recognized as currently the best possible model for patients with mental illness, yet some countries still have a hospitalbased model of care. Croatia as part of Joint Action ImpleMENTAL is taking steps towards a balanced model of mental health care. Aim: In this paper we are going to show which steps in the pre-implementation and during implementation phase, based on Croatian experience, are recommended. We will also discuss which obstacles were and are engaged in the process of implementation. Results: With strategy framework accepted and action plans developed, Croatia started with the implementation phase of mobile teams as a first step in the paradigm shift from hospital based towards a balanced model of mental care. Several obstacles were identified such as stakeholder’s resistance, bureaucracy and lack of sustainability. Conclusion: Countries with a hospital-based model of mental health care are suggested to combine experience from other countries with taking into account domestic circumstances. Learning from those who have learned/ are still learning could spare valuable resources from all stakeholders involved in the process of transition towards a balanced model of mental health care.