Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Crisis is Straining ERs
Access to behavioral healthcare is decreasing in Pennsylvania, causing more people to seek care at hospital ERs, according to a report in the Central Penn Business Journal. Many come in crisis and stay for days, weeks and even months because there are few other options for care.
There currently is an insufficient supply of behavioral health providers and services in the commonwealth and across the nation. Inpatient facilities have closed and those still open don’t have enough beds. Rural areas don’t have enough providers and some areas don’t have Internet for telehealth. Patients who seek appointments are often told none are available, and it is hard for someone with mental health challenges to advocate for themselves, noted the article.
As a result, patients are heading to ERs, causing a backup that is putting a strain on providers and affecting the ability to care for new patients. Because behavioral health issues can escalate chronic health conditions, this also is driving up the costs of care.
Delayed care of medical emergencies in the ER can have serious and even life-threatening implications. Tom Duffy has recovered tens of millions of dollars for victims of emergency room injury and negligence, including a $21,000,000 verdict for a patient prematurely discharged. If you would like to speak with a top Philadelphia medical malpractice attorney, please contact us.