Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
Report: Number Of Psychiatric Beds In State Hospitals Has Drastically Declined
The Washington Post: Nation’s Psychiatric Bed Count Falls To Record Low
The number of psychiatric beds in state hospitals has dropped to a historic low, and nearly half of the beds that are available are filled with patients from the criminal justice system. Both statistics, reported in a new national study, reflect the sweeping changes that have taken place in the half-century since the United States began deinstitutionalizing mental illness in favor of outpatient treatment. But the promise of that shift was never fulfilled, and experts and advocates say the result is seen even today in the increasing ranks of homeless and incarcerated Americans suffering from serious mental conditions. (Beachum, 7/1)
Chicago Tribune: For-Profit Psychiatric Care Firm Says It's Filling Gap In Chicago Area
The shortage of beds comes as a complex mix of social and legal forces is driving up demand for mental health services. There is much less stigma today in seeking treatment for a mental problem. Changing attitudes have also led to regulations establishing parity in insurance coverage for treatment of behavioral and physical health. (Sachdev, 7/1)
Stat: Some Hospitals Resist New Fresh Air Rules For Psychiatric Patients
Friday, the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health issued new “Fresh Air” rules for psychiatric patients across the state. ... The rules require hospitals to grant mental health patients daily access to the outdoors. But up to 20 hospitals, including Massachusetts General, plan to seek waivers to the new rules, citing a lack of space. Those hospitals represent about one-third of psychiatric facilities statewide. The rules present a tug-of-war over patients’ rights, doctors’ judgment, and the logistical demands of running a hospital in an urban environment. (Bailey, 7/5)
New Hampshire Union Leader: Doctors, Nurses Quit Over New Contract At New Hampshire Hospital
The state health commissioner is assuring hospital executives that patient units at New Hampshire Hospital will be “appropriately staffed,” despite a contract dispute that led some physicians and nurse practitioners to walk off the job Thursday. Dartmouth-Hitchcock took over care of patients at the state psychiatric hospital on Friday. (Wickham, 7/1)
