AB 1300 would give ER doctors flexibility to determine whether 5150 is needed or treatment more beneficial

The bill also needs funding for mental health services to be effective.


http://www.sacbee.com/opinion/op-ed/soapbox/article81180057.html

Excerpt:

It’s a fearful thing to have to go to the emergency room. Unfortunately, when those in a mental health crisis are brought in from the street, there are appalling delays in receiving proper treatment, much to the frustration of ER doctors.

That’s due to a long-obsolete state law that ties the hands of these highly trained physicians, creating a situation that is unfair to all patients in the ER. I’m referring to “5150” holds, named after the section of state law that authorizes an involuntary 72-hour detention for those who are believed to need mental health services to prevent harm to themselves or to others. While the intent of that law is public safety, the reality is that these involuntary holds keep many people with behavioral health conditions from getting timely treatment.

Excerpt 2:

That’s why a broad coalition of groups – including the California chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians, California Psychiatric Association and California Hospital Association – is collaborating on a legislative solution.

Assembly Bill 1300 by Assemblyman Sebastian Ridley-Thomas, D-Los Angeles, would give ER doctors the authority to determine whether a 72-hour hold is needed – or whether patients would be better served outside the emergency room. The bill faces a critical vote June 8 in the Senate Health Committee.

Modernizing the law would get patients the mental health services they need much more quickly, and would free up the ER to treat other patients who need immediate medical help.

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/opinion/op-ed/soapbox/article81180057.html#storylink=cpy

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/opinion/op-ed/soapbox/article81180057.html#storylink=cpy