Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB178

Introduced
1/19/23  

Caption

In general provisions, repeals and effective date, providing for acute care mental health bed registry and referrals.

Impact

The introduction of SB178 is expected to impact state laws related to mental health care significantly. By mandating the establishment of a bed registry, the bill would change how mental health resources are allocated and utilized. This may streamline processes for both healthcare providers and patients by reducing the delays in securing treatment. Furthermore, it anticipates improving coordination among various healthcare entities involved in managing mental health services, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients in crisis.

Summary

Senate Bill 178 introduces provisions for an acute care mental health bed registry aimed at improving access to mental health services. This bill focuses on creating a registry that would help in tracking the availability of mental health beds across the state and facilitate referrals to appropriate facilities. By establishing such a system, the bill seeks to address the challenges faced by individuals in need of acute mental health care, ensuring they receive timely and adequate support. The emphasis on mental health reflects an acknowledgment of the growing concerns surrounding mental health issues in society.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB178 appears largely supportive among mental health advocacy groups and healthcare providers, who recognize the necessity for better infrastructure in mental health services. Supporters argue that this registry would be a pivotal step towards enhancing mental health care delivery and addressing urgent patient needs. Conversely, some critics might express concerns about the potential administrative burden on healthcare facilities or the implications of accessing sensitive patient data, thus highlighting the need for careful implementation.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB178 center around data privacy and resource allocation. While the bill is aimed at improving access to mental health resources, there are concerns over how patient information will be handled and the logistical challenges of maintaining an accurate and up-to-date registry. Further, there might be debates on whether the resources required to implement this registry could detract from other critical areas of mental health funding. These discussions may reveal broader themes regarding the balance between enhancing access and protecting patient rights within the healthcare system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB493

In general provisions, repeals and effective date, providing for acute care mental health bed registry and referrals.

PA HB1937

Acute psychiatric bed registry; patient privacy and data security, etc.

PA SB1439

Acute psychiatric bed registry; patient privacy and data security, etc.

PA SB719

Relating to the collection of information on available beds at inpatient mental health facilities providing acute psychiatric treatment.

PA HB4420

Relating to the collection of information on available beds at inpatient mental health facilities providing acute psychiatric treatment.

PA HB1851

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in death and fetal death registration, further providing for information for certificates and for coroner referrals.

PA HF2543

A bill for an act relating to subacute mental health care facilities and services, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HF 2220.) Effective date: 05/02/2026.

PA HB1266

In licensing of health care facilities, providing for hospital pricing transparency; providing for acquisition of health care facilities; and conferring powers to the Department of Health and Attorney General.

PA HB2370

Relating generally to mental health treatment

PA SB1794

Mental health; creating the Oklahoma Behavioral Health Vacancy Registry Act; requiring establishment of certain behavioral health vacancy registry; mandating certain reporting. Effective date.

Similar Bills

NJ A1155

Establishes State Parkinson's disease registry.

OH SB236

Enact the Suicide Self-Defense Act

NJ A1016

Requires automatic registration with New Jersey Immunization Information System upon administration of vaccine for certain persons who consent to registration.

NJ S2987

Requires automatic registration with New Jersey Immunization Information System upon administration of vaccine for certain persons who consent to registration.

NJ A3853

Establishes State Parkinson's disease registry and awareness campaign.

TX HB772

Relating to the immunization data included in and excluded from the immunization registry.

TX SB46

Relating to the immunization data included in and excluded from the immunization registry.

LA HB541

Establishes a registry for individuals and entities that provide caregiving services (EN NO IMPACT See Note)