
More Beds, Less Boarding


I am writing today with a simple message:
Support Senate Bill 5644 2015-16 now! This bill will increase the number of psychiatric beds for vulnerable individuals with a mental illness. This bill increases the amount of “single bed” certifications for individuals who meet criteria to be detained under the ITA (Involuntary Treatment Act). These individuals who do not have a permanent placement would be given a placement in a single bed certified facility until they could get into a long term care facility. This would increase the amount of individuals receiving timely and effective care and would decrease the amount of individuals who are “boarded” in emergency rooms in need of psychiatric care.
This is why the issue is important:
Nearly 1 in 5 American adults, 43.8 million people, had a diagnosable mental illness in 2013.We are urging you today to listen to your constituents and to work diligently to move this bill forward.
Thank
you for your time.
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