Psychiatric facilities are often inpatient general facilities that provide psychiatric treatment for patients 18 years of age and older. Many provides a comprehensive treatment program and therapeutic milieu, which could include everything from group sessions to Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT).
Inpatient referrals are generally accepted from a number of sources: physicians, clinicians, other hospitals, ACLFs/SNFs, human service agencies, clergy, family, friends, industry, judicial systems, etc. Also, treatment services are generally covered by most commercial insurance plans, Medicare and Medicaid.
These facilities specialize in the treatment of a range of psychiatric ailments. They accept patients both voluntarily and involuntarily. The Welfare and Institutions Code allows a person to be involuntarily detained at a psychiatric facility for up to 72 hours.
Choosing a psychiatric facility is especially tough, as they are generally known for certain types of specialized care. When on the hunt for the perfect treatment center, be sure to ask the following questions.
- What is the goal of the treatment facility?
- What psychiatric services do you need?
- How long do you want to stay at the facility?
- Do you prefer an inpatient or outpatient experience?
- Do you want a residential treatment community?
- How important is the treatment center’s peer community?
Answering these questions will help you figure out what type of program and facility is right for you or your loved one.