State leaders are working to improve Hawaii’s mental health system, addressing concerns about the rising number of patients at the state hospital.
A special task force was formed to address the issue and is getting ready to tell the Governor what needs to be improved.
It’s the only hospital of its kind in Hawaii, treating 180 mentally ill adults and helping them transition into the outside world.
"We are very concerned about revitalizing the mental health system," said Lynn Fallin, deputy director of the State Department of Health.
Concerned, because the hospital has experienced a 33% increase in admissions since last year. The DOH requested help, so the Governor formed the Special Action Team, which includes 30 state leaders.
"We want to be sure that all the services and support that are needed so individuals who are at the state hospital, have what they need," Fallin said.
Currently, one-third of the patients at the state hospital have been charged with crimes, but are unfit to stand trial. But officials say, this is not a prison.
"And we really are responsible as a psychiatric institution for facilitating community integration, facilitating treatment in the least-restrictive setting," said Mark Fridovich, state hospital administrator.
But security here is tight. And the state has spent more than $5 million on a telecommunications and security system that includes 15 monitors and 345 cameras. Still, the hospital reported one escape this year, and four last year.
"Security doesn’t guarantee anything but we use it pretty well to help make the hospital safer and safer," Fridovich said.
Programs on the 114-acre property, include aquaponics, pet therapy and a vegetable garden.
"It’s a work simulation program where they’re able to practice behaviors that will help them return to the community," said Tiffany Kawaguchi, chief of rehabilitation.
More than half of the patients who are discharged, will return and be readmitted. The Governor’s group, wants to bring those numbers down and ensure all mental health patients across the state receive the right kind of services.
The task force will submit its recommendations to the Governor next month.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
