Relating to a transportation plan for persons furloughed or discharged from certain mental health facilities.
Impact
The passage of HB 4276 would amend the Health and Safety Code by introducing Section 574.089, which mandates that facility administrators are responsible for developing a written transportation plan for each patient being discharged or furloughed. This plan must outline key components such as the designated transporters, the timing of the transport, and the final destination, thereby introducing an additional layer of oversight in the care of individuals with mental health needs.
Summary
House Bill 4276 establishes a framework for creating transportation plans for individuals who are furloughed or discharged from specific mental health facilities. The primary aim of the bill is to ensure that the process for transporting patients is structured, accountable, and sensitive to the needs of individuals exiting mental health care. This initiative recognizes the potential vulnerabilities of patients during their transition back into the community, thus highlighting the importance of a formalized transportation process.
Contention
While the bill has been largely supported for its focus on patient safety and care coordination, some concerns have been raised regarding potential burdens on mental health facilities. Critics argue that the requirement for a formal transportation plan may add administrative pressure, particularly in facilities already operating with limited resources. There may also be apprehensions related to patient privacy and the logistics of involving family members in the process, particularly if consent is required before information is shared.
Relating to an application for emergency detention, procedures regarding court-ordered mental health services, and certain rights of patients admitted to private mental hospitals and certain other mental health facilities.
Relating to procedures applicable to the emergency detention of a person with mental illness at a mental health facility, including the detention, transportation, and transfer of the person and to certain best practices for courts with jurisdiction over emergency mental health matters.
Relating to procedures applicable to the emergency detention of a person with mental illness at a mental health facility, including the detention, transportation, and transfer of the person and to certain best practices for courts with jurisdiction over emergency mental health matters.
Relating to local mental health authority and local behavioral health authority audits and mental and behavioral health reporting, services, and programs.
Relating to the eligibility for and provision of benefits under Medicaid or the child health plan program for certain individuals committed, placed, or detained in certain facilities and settings.
Relating to the authority of a peace officer to apprehend a person for emergency detention and the authority of certain facilities and physicians to temporarily detain a person with mental illness.