Health facilities: residential mental health or substance use disorder treatment.
The bill's impact on state law includes the establishment of comprehensive regulations governing the collection, aggregation, and dissemination of information pertaining to mental health and substance use disorder treatment resources. By mandating the creation of this online database, AB 1136 seeks to provide public access to vital information, allowing healthcare providers, first responders, and families to easily locate available treatment options for individuals in crisis. This legislative move aligns with existing federal initiatives aimed at improving mental health services across the nation.
Assembly Bill 1136 aims to enhance the availability and efficiency of mental health and substance use disorder treatment resources throughout California. It proposes the development of a real-time, Internet-based database that will aggregate and display information regarding the availability of beds in various treatment facilities, including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, crisis stabilization units, and residential treatment centers. This initiative is intended to improve the accessibility of critical treatment options for individuals facing mental health crises or substance use issues, thereby facilitating timely interventions.
The sentiment surrounding AB 1136 is generally positive among mental health advocates and healthcare professionals, as it addresses a critical gap in the availability of treatment resources. Supporters believe that timely access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment can significantly improve outcomes for individuals in crisis. However, some concerns have been expressed about the potential for funding and resource allocation, as well as the need for ongoing consultations with stakeholders to ensure the database remains effective and user-friendly.
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the bill's implementation, specifically concerning the coordination between various state agencies and healthcare organizations. Stakeholder engagement will be crucial to the success of this initiative, as the bill requires collaboration with several entities, including the State Department of Public Health and mental health service providers. There may also be discussions about the adequacy of funding under the federal 21st Century Cures Act to sustain the proposed database in the long term.