CO SB153

Legislature finds Colorado suicide deaths have increased since 2009, with the highest number recorded in 2016, and identifies gaps in education and training standards for mental health professionals regarding suicide ideation and opioid abuse.

Department of Public Health and Environment must identify data gaps, analyze suicide trends, collaborate with community partners and state agencies to evaluate evidence-based standards and best practices for suicide prevention and intervention by December 1, 2019.

Department shall develop a universal outpatient mental health authorization form allowing individuals to consent to release of health information between mental health professionals to improve care coordination for those experiencing suicide ideation or substance use disorders.

Licensed health facilities must establish transition plans for individuals being treated for suicide ideation moving from inpatient to community-based care, focusing on increased community support and improved communication between mental health professionals.

Department shall work with Colorado hospitals to evaluate the effectiveness of the Colorado suicide prevention plan and include results in reports submitted to the General Assembly.