Senate Bill 106 aims to establish a certification process for psychiatric residential treatment facilities (PRTFs) in Wisconsin, specifically for individuals under the age of 21. The bill empowers the Department of Health Services (DHS) to certify PRTFs that meet federal standards for providing inpatient psychiatric services. It includes provisions for announced and unannounced inspections, limits on the number of certifications, and geographic considerations to ensure diversity in PRTF locations. Additionally, the bill allows DHS to create administrative rules regarding security requirements, staffing levels, and operational standards for PRTFs. It also incorporates federal regulations related to the admission and treatment of individuals in PRTFs, ensuring that services provided align with federal Medical Assistance (MA) requirements.
Furthermore, the bill introduces specific operational guidelines for PRTFs that are not covered by federal regulations. These include the use of video surveillance in common areas without patient consent, the implementation of locked units for safety, and the requirement for PRTFs to adopt safety monitoring policies. The bill also allows DHS to provide grants to establish PRTFs, with a focus on ensuring facilities are available in both northern and southern regions of the state. Lastly, it clarifies that PRTFs can seek reimbursement from private health plans for their services, thereby enhancing the accessibility and funding of mental health treatment for minors in Wisconsin.