HB 1629-S - DIGEST

(DIGEST OF PROPOSED 1ST SUBSTITUTE)

     Finds that in order to comply with the community mental health services act, chapter 71.24 RCW, and the medicaid managed care mental health waiver, and to effectively assist persons with mental illness and consumers of mental health services in the assertion of their civil and human rights, and to improve the quality of services available and promote the rehabilitation, recovery, and reintegration of these persons, an independent mental health ombudsman program should be instituted.

     Directs the department of community, trade, and economic development to contract with a private nonprofit organization to be the office of mental health ombudsman and to provide mental health ombudsman services as specified under, and consistent with, the medicaid managed care mental health waiver, state law, the goals of the state, and the needs of its citizens.

     Takes effect July 1, 2002.