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| “On July 5, Delaware officials reached a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), outlining mandatory reforms in the provision of mental health services at the Delaware Psychiatric Center. Settling a 3-year DOJ investigation that found Delaware in violation of the Americans With Disabilities Act and the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1999 Olmstead v. L.C. decision, the agreement will reduce the number of patients at the facility from 160 to 125. The agreement also requires the state to provide individuals with community-based mental health services where possible, as well as support services, including a peer support recovery network and housing assistance. By January 2012, the state must also establish a mental health crisis team, capable of statewide crisis response within 1 hour. State officials estimate implementation of the agreement will cost approximately $4 million in the first year.” |
