Bill > S1246

This bill aims to provide more timely treatment of inpatient mental health care. It amends several sections of Chapter 123 of the General Laws to require that: 1) hospital-based mental health services be developed consistent with available physician resources and national standards for evening and night coverage; 2) independent medical examinations for indigent persons be requested within 24 hours of counsel appointment and completed within 3 business days; 3) hearings for inpatient mental health facility patients be conducted within 7 days of the filing of a petition. Additionally, the bill directs the Department of Children and Families and the Office of the Child Advocate to develop a facilitated process and timeframe for the administration of antipsychotic medication for children in their custody who are hospitalized in inpatient psychiatric facilities.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S1246