Texas State Hospitals

If you have experienced a medical issue and need to be admitted to a state hospital, there are a few options available to you. You can file a claim with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, or you can contact the facility where the care was rendered. There are some guidelines and procedures you must follow.

LMHA or LBHA screens patients seeking admission to a state hospital

Before admitting a patient to a state hospital, a screening process is conducted to determine whether the patient is at risk for a medical emergency. According to the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, all hospitals must screen patients in the emergency department and stabilize or transfer those who need medical attention. Once a patient has been admitted, the admitting physician determines whether treatment is necessary. Screening also takes place for patients sent to a facility by court commitment. For involuntary admission, patients must display signs of mental illness or be in danger.

In the event of a mental health emergency, there are few options for the patient. Emergency departments may offer inpatient beds, but the wait time can be long. Other options may include 24-hour observation units, extended observation units, and crisis respite. However, in many rural counties, these options do not exist. If the patient is not eligible for a transfer to a state hospital, the general emergency department must discharge him or her.

LMHA or LBHA staff report a general mental health workforce shortage in their area. The most pressing concern is a lack of child psychiatrists. According to one LMHA director, there are not enough psychiatrists in the state to evaluate jail inmates. Furthermore, LMHA leadership reported difficulty in retaining staff. They are promoting higher salaries and incentives to recruit staff.

LBHA screens patients seeking admission to a state hospital

A state hospital is an institution that specializes in the treatment of mental illness. These hospitals are Medicare and Medicaid approved and are accredited by the Joint Commission. Admission procedures are designed to ensure the safety of patients. Applicants for state hospital admission must undergo a thorough screening process by a mental health authority. The admission process is usually conducted within twenty-four hours. The screening process includes a physical examination, appropriate laboratory tests, and other diagnostics. In addition, staff members conduct dental screening and complete a social history. The process is culturally sensitive and the assessment is designed to ensure the safety of the patient.