MA S1398

Establishes at least two intensive stabilization and treatment units within the Department of Mental Health for patients with persistently aggressive, self-destructive, or atypically violent behavior requiring specialized care

Requires one unit designated for men and one for women, located at a central, secured location physically separate from other units

Units must provide comprehensive evaluation, stabilization, and psychiatric treatment including violence assessments, behavioral management consultation, conflict resolution strategies, critical incident debriefings, and transfer evaluations

Mandates interdisciplinary staffing with specialized training, including registered nurses, clinical social workers, mental health workers, psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, and rehabilitation specialists

Requires staff to develop a plan for safe and timely patient transfer out of the unit once behavior stabilization is achieved