Maryland House Bill HB1329

Maryland 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/11/22
• Refer: 2/11/22

Caption

Suicide Treatment Improvement Act

Impact

This legislation introduces new standards for mental healthcare facilities handling suicidal patients, including the necessity for compassionate care and the elimination of harmful restraints during treatment. Furthermore, it mandates that facilities have appropriately trained personnel available 24/7 to provide counseling that caters specifically to those experiencing mental health crises. The bill also aims to improve the engagement of advocates for individuals in treatment facilities, ensuring that patient rights are upheld throughout their care journey.

Summary

House Bill 1329, known as the Suicide Treatment Improvement Act, seeks to establish important reforms in how individuals who are suicidal or have attempted suicide are treated. The bill outlines specific requirements and prohibitions for treatment protocols, including the manner of counseling provided to these individuals, discharge and transfer processes, and the necessary insurance coverage for mental health services. A significant focus of the bill is the enhancement of access to mental health care, ensuring that individuals receive humane and appropriate treatment in a timely manner.

Contention

There may be points of contention surrounding the implementation of the mandated training programs and how effectively they can be integrated into existing facility practices. Stakeholders may also raise concerns about the financial implications for healthcare insurers, especially regarding the expansion of mental health services mandated without additional funding. Additionally, the bill's provisions around the Health Crisis Hotline and its operational standards could lead to debates about resource allocation and efficacy in crisis response mechanisms.