Maine Senate Bill LD2009

Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/6/23
• Refer: 6/6/23
• Engrossed: 2/22/24
• Enrolled: 2/27/24
• Passed: 2/29/24

Caption

Resolve, to Establish a Stakeholder Group to Address the Problem of Long Stays for Children and Adolescents in Hospital Emergency Departments

Impact

The bill's discussions highlight the need for systemic change in how care is provided for children needing psychiatric services after stabilization. It targets improvements in both the availability of community and residential placements and the quality of hospital discharge policies. By focusing on these areas, LD2009 seeks to alleviate the problem of emergency department overcrowding, which poses challenges not only for the children affected but also for emergency personnel and hospital resources across the state.

Summary

LD2009 aims to address the urgent issue of children and adolescents experiencing prolonged stays in hospital emergency departments despite being medically stable. This resolution mandates the creation of a stakeholder group convened by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to explore the factors contributing to these long stays and to propose solutions. The group will consist of various stakeholders, including representatives from child welfare services, mental health advocacy organizations, hospitals, and parents with relevant experiences, ensuring a comprehensive examination of the issue.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding LD2009 is notably supportive, particularly among stakeholders who recognize the challenges faced by families and children in crisis. However, there is some skepticism regarding the execution of the proposed solutions and the establishment of a children's psychiatric residential treatment facility. Participants in discussions have expressed a mix of optimism and concern regarding whether the stakeholder group will successfully create effective strategies that can lead to tangible improvements in the system.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around logistical and funding issues, including the establishment of a secure children’s psychiatric residential treatment facility as proposed in the bill. Critics have raised concerns about whether the necessary resources will be allocated and whether the recommendations will lead to substantial improvements in addressing the needs of children who experience long waits in emergency departments. These discussions indicate a critical need for adequate planning and commitment to ensure the enactment of effective solutions for this vulnerable population.