Use of Restraints by State Mental Health Facilities Led to 14 Deaths Since July 1999, Report Says
Since July 1999, 14 people have died while being restrained in California mental health facilities, according to a report released yesterday, the Sacramento Bee reports. The report by the Senate Office of Research found "little oversight" and "lax regulations" governing the use of restraints and seclusion. In response to the report, Sen. Wes Chesbro (D-Arcata) said he would hold a hearing to consider legislation that would outline "uniform rules" for the use of restraints and seclusion. "It's time to consider the best practices in this field to protect the dignity and safety of all our residents," Chesbro said. Officials from the state Department of Health Services said they had not seen the report and declined to comment (Fletcher, Sacramento Bee, 3/20).
This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.