MS SB2710

Amends Section 41-4-7 to require initial assessments of mental health patients in county holding facilities be performed by a physician (preferably psychiatrist) or nurse practitioner (preferably psychiatric nurse practitioner).

Expands list of health care professionals authorized to annually certify client records to include licensed psychologists, physician assistants, licensed professional counselors, licensed marriage and family therapists, and licensed clinical social workers in addition to physicians and psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioners.

Applies minimum standards and certification requirements to county facilities used for housing and providing medical treatment to involuntarily committed persons awaiting state facility admission.

Establishes six-month probationary period for non-compliant county facilities to meet minimum standards; decertified facilities must contract with certified facilities and home county reimburses receiving county for costs.

Effective July 1, 2012.