Legal and Health Experts Clash Over State’s Mental Health Patient Placement Policies Amid Increasing Concerns
In Oregon, state funding for mental health services has seen a marked increase, providing a vital resource for transitioning patients into residential treatment homes and other community-based settings. This year, spending on aid and assist contracts surged to $15 million from just $3.5 million five years ago, reflecting a commitment to supporting ongoing care in less restrictive environments. Despite these fiscal efforts, obtaining suitable placements remains a complex challenge. Local health authority contracts with county-based programs facilitate patient placements but these programs lack the authority to admit or evict individuals from specific facilities. Furthermore, funding … Read more