perkinslumbago t1_jahibhf wrote
Reply to comment by NJP220 in New Hampshire ordered to phase out practice of keeping psychiatric patients in emergency rooms by greenhousecrtv
You are absolutely right, but it’s not the point of the lawsuit. This lawsuit came out of years of the state claiming they would make changes. It was not a surprise lawsuit, nor is it the first lawsuit of its type to push the state for change. The lawsuit doesn’t hit the heart of what you are saying because it’s. It meant to find a solution, it’s meant to order a solution.
The comparison I think of first is the Laconia state school litigation. The state said for years they would phase out the institute but never did. They claimed it was impossible to find the funding, impossible to place people, impossible to abolish the institute. Then a lawsuit came and the court ordered they do it. And they did. The services still aren’t perfect but it’s a step that has helped thousands be functional within their community.
NJP220 t1_jahoclh wrote
That makes sense. Thank you for the info. It sucks that these are the avenues that need to be used to try to change a broken system. I worry this push for change will unfortunately negatively impact patients at least in the short-term though. Like a game of chess that is for a good cause. The ultimate win may be for the best, but pawns are going to be thrown at the enemy.
Acanthaceae_Square t1_jajs2qj wrote
Yes. This. Just like w every other social issue, NH has known for decades this was a problem. 10 years ago a state mental health plan was developed that didn’t get carried out. NH will never do anything it should unless it’s forced. I also work in the ED and applaud this decision because DHHS is like a child who needs a parent to ensure they’re doing their homework and who’s been given way too many second chances to be trusted. Hopefully the fed court stays on them to make sure the solution is also appropriate and not another half assed smoke screen
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