Mental Health Reform

In response to the April 16, 2007 tragedy at Virginia Tech, there have been public calls to improve Virginia’s public and private mental health systems. Recommendations from both the Virginia Tech Review Panel and the Virginia Supreme Court Commission on Mental Health Law Reform are being used as the foundation for a series of legislative measures and budget initiatives announced by Governor Timothy M. Kaine and numerous members of the General Assembly. These proposals reflect increased awareness and desire to improve psychiatric services for Virginians. These reforms will require increased resources including public funding, increased physician workforce, and private sector coverage. Policy changes to improve coordination of care between emergency rooms, courtrooms, jails, hospitals, and community providers will also be needed.

Resources

Mandatory Outpatient Treatment for Juveniles Timeline (PDF)
16 April 2009

Relevant Services for Juvenile Commitment (PDF)
7 April 2009

Virginia Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services (DMHMRSAS) Web site

Uniform Preadmission Screening Form (PDF)

DMHMRSAS 1006-P (PDF)

DMHMRSAS 1006-IE (PDF)

DMHMRSAS 1006-CO (PDF)

FY2010 Community Services Board Evaluators and Prescreeners Required Training (PDF)

FY2010 Independent Examiners Required Certification Training (PDF)

Mental Health Law Reform (PPT)
2008

2009 Legislative Agenda (PDF)

2008 Mental Health Law Reform Web site