The California Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission (MHSOAC) included Psychiatric Advance Directives as part of their 2020–2023 Strategic Plan. Seven counties have opted to initiate this multi-county Innovation project to test the feasibility of using Psychiatric Advance Directives. This supports a statewide movement to create a standardized, sustainable Psychiatric Advance Directive process. The goal of the Innovation project is to help counties improve access to personal, health, and daily life care, the appropriateness and quality of care, preservation of the individual’s life goals and preferences, and to improve positive outcomes for people at risk of involuntary care, homelessness, unnecessary hospitalizations, and involvement with the criminal justice systems, at all stages of life.
The project includes development of all stages of the Psychiatric Advance Directive process, including the form, legal language, a training “tool-kit,” and evaluation. A key feature is the development of a user-friendly and secure online platform where people can learn about, complete, and store their Psychiatric Advance Directives, which will be accessible in real-time for first responders, crisis teams, and healthcare staff.
Psychiatric Advance Directives have the potential to enhance individual independence for persons with behavioral health needs and related conditions. The benefits of this early advocacy include:
Project Title: Multi-County Psychiatric Advance Directives Innovations Project
A PAD is a simple, effective way to understand the immediate needs of our clients in crisis.
– Jason Ivins, Captain, OCSD
Knowing that I have a PAD, I know that when I can’t make sound decisions. I will be taken care of.
– Cynthia A., Certified Peer Support Specialist
This is so impactful in helping not only individuals, but their families as well. This could be a game changer for future generations and avoid some unnecessary traumas.
– Rachel S., Certified Peer Support Specialist
This is really an exciting time, as this tool can truly be an empowerment tool, to allow and ensure those with a PAD are able to control their own wellness and recovery.
– Ahmad Bahrami, Division Manager, Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health
A PAD is a simple, effective way to understand the immediate needs of our clients in crisis.
– Jason Ivins, Captain, OCSD
Knowing that I have a PAD, I know that when I can’t make sound decisions. I will be taken care of.
– Cynthia A., Certified Peer Support Specialist
This is so impactful in helping not only individuals, but their families as well. This could be a game changer for future generations and avoid some unnecessary traumas.
– Rachel S., Certified Peer Support Specialist
This is really an exciting time, as this tool can truly be an empowerment tool, to allow and ensure those with a PAD are able to control their own wellness and recovery.
– Ahmad Bahrami, Division Manager, Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health
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