New Jersey Senate Bill S2541

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/12/22
• Refer: 5/12/22
• Report Pass: 6/23/22
• Refer: 6/23/22

Caption

Establishes two-year pilot program for certain mental health care facilities to treat additional juvenile patients.

Impact

The pilot program will be established by the Departments of Health and Human Services within 90 days of the bill's enactment. It will involve the selection of two to four facilities that meet specific criteria, including the presence of specialized psychiatrists trained in juvenile care and a staff trained to treat juvenile patients at all times. The assessment of the quality of treatment provided during the pilot will help identify whether utilizing adult beds for juvenile patients is effective and beneficial.

Summary

Bill S2541 introduces a two-year pilot program to allow certain mental health care facilities in New Jersey to treat additional juvenile patients. The bill aims to address the growing demand for mental health treatment among juveniles, particularly as there is a shortage of inpatient services available to this population. By permitting health care facilities to utilize vacant adult psychiatric beds for juvenile patients when clinically suitable, the bill seeks to optimize the use of mental health resources and improve access to necessary care for young individuals aged 14 to 17.

Contention

Some concerns may arise regarding the appropriateness of placing juvenile patients in environments primarily designed for adults, even when beds are available. Opponents might argue that this could affect the quality of mental health care for juveniles, as their treatment needs may differ significantly from those of adults. The bill's emphasis on evaluating the outcomes during the pilot program will hopefully address these concerns and provide data-driven insights into the efficacy and safety of this arrangement.