Hawaii House Bill HR129

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/14/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Health To Develop Protocols For Hospitals In The State To Improve The Treatment Of Patients Contemplating Suicide.

Impact

The proposed protocols outlined in HR129 are aimed at ensuring that hospitals provide comprehensive support to patients at risk of suicide. Key features of the protocols include the requirement for one-on-one counseling, the availability of trained suicide counselors at all times, and specific discharge policies ensuring that at-risk individuals are not released to potentially harmful situations, such as homelessness or incarceration. This transformative approach seeks to minimize the variability in care currently present across healthcare facilities and to improve overall mental health treatment outcomes.

Summary

House Resolution 129 requests the Hawaii Department of Health to develop and implement specific protocols to enhance the treatment of individuals contemplating suicide within hospitals. It addresses the alarming rates of suicide, particularly among young adults and emphasizes the healthcare system's crucial role in prevention. The resolution notes that many individuals who die by suicide had contacts with healthcare professionals prior to their deaths, highlighting gaps in care that need to be addressed.

Contention

While HR129 has the potential to significantly enhance patient care standards, it may also meet resistance based on concerns over implementation and resource allocation. Some argue that requiring hospitals to adhere to these protocols could place additional strains on healthcare facilities, particularly those already facing budget challenges. Additionally, there may be differing opinions on the effectiveness of such protocols in real-world applications and how they communicate with current mental health initiatives in place.