COMMISSION ON QUALITY OF CARE FOR THE MENTALLY DISABLED

COMMISSION ON QUALITY OF CARE FOR THE MENTALLY DISABLED

MISSION

The Commission on Quality of Care for the Mentally Disabled provides oversight of the State and local mental hygiene systems that collectively spend more than $5 billion in public funds annually. The Commission:

Monitors conditions of care for people with mental disabilities in State institutions, licensed residential facilities, and outpatient programs;
Reports to the Governor and Legislature on how the laws and policies established to protect the rights of people with mental disabilities are being implemented; and
Makes recommendations to improve quality of care.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

OVERSIGHT OF SERVICE DELIVERY

The commissions provides independent oversight and review of State-and-voluntary-operated programs serving individuals with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and alcohol and substance abuse problems. Most importantly, it investigates complaints including allegations of patient abuse or mistreatment in facilities operated or licensed by these agencies.

PROTECTION AND ADVOCACY

Federal funding provides statewide protection and advocacy services for individuals with disabilities, using State staff and contracts with non-profit agencies.

SURROGATE DECISION MAKING COMMITTEE

The Surrogate Decision Making Committee (SDMC) program reviews recommendations for medical services on behalf of individuals receiving Mental Health residential services who have neither a legal guardian nor the ability to make decisions for themselves. Volunteer teams comprised of medical, legal and health care professionals and advocates work through dispute resolution centers to represent these individuals. Expanded under a multi-year gubernatorial initiative, this program is now available statewide.