The bill amends existing Iowa law regarding the discharge process for individuals who have been involuntarily committed to a facility or hospital. It introduces new definitions for "administrative services organization" and "behavioral health district," and outlines specific requirements that facilities must follow prior to discharging a respondent. These requirements include referring the respondent to an administrative services organization for evaluation and post-discharge services, assessing suicide risk, providing a fifteen-day supply of prescribed medications, and issuing a comprehensive discharge report that includes a patient-centered aftercare plan and educational materials.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the administrative services organization coordinate post-discharge care, including follow-ups to ensure the respondent attends scheduled appointments. It also requires quarterly reporting to the department on the number of discharged respondents, their outcomes, and any issues encountered in ensuring continuity of care. The bill emphasizes the importance of communication with the court that ordered the commitment, ensuring that the discharge is officially recognized and documented. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the support and resources available to individuals transitioning out of involuntary treatment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 125.2, 125.85, 229.1, 229.16
Reprinted: 125.2, 125.85, 229.1, 229.16