The bill amends the Mental Health Code of Michigan, specifically sections 409 and 972, to enhance the operations and standards of community mental health services programs. It mandates that each program shall establish one or more preadmission screening units available 24/7 to assess individuals for voluntary admission into hospitals or crisis services. The bill specifies that these units must employ qualified mental health professionals and outlines the procedures for assessing individuals within three hours of notification from a hospital. It also introduces provisions for telehealth assessments and establishes a process for second opinions if hospitalization is denied.

Additionally, the bill sets forth minimum standards for certifying crisis stabilization units, which include requirements for emergency receiving functions, voluntary and involuntary admissions, and prohibitions against misrepresenting the unit as a hospital. It emphasizes the need for proper discharge planning and outlines standards for billing and reimbursement for services, particularly for uninsured or underinsured individuals. The bill aims to improve the quality of mental health services and ensure that individuals receive appropriate care in a timely manner.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 330.1409, 330.1972