OH HB677

Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services shall establish and operate an ongoing demonstration program with a mental health trauma center at a county hospital in Cuyahoga County

Program purposes include reducing crime by improving access to mental health services, especially short-term services for individuals experiencing acute mental health crises, and serving as a model for additional centers statewide

Mental health trauma center must provide mental health services using proven and untested therapies, conduct research on best practices, and help individuals access social services and public assistance including Medicaid and supplemental nutrition assistance benefits

Department may request assistance from teaching hospitals in Cuyahoga County affiliated with private universities or owned and operated by nonprofit foundations

Center may seek probate court assistance regarding individuals found to be mentally ill persons subject to court order and may use drug treatment programs as a model for other mental health service providers