Existing regs: “DMAS recommends that an individual eligible for crisis stabilization services receive a psychiatric/medical evaluation within 72 hours of admission to the service.” Current CSUs are staffed to meet this reg.
Many use a medical provider “rounding on the unit” several hours per day model, as a way to complete psych evals. Most admissions have had a very recent psych eval, such as in an emergency department, and can wait for a full psych eval during daytime hours.
Many CSUs cannot pivot to provide “upon admission” by Dec 1s and without significant cost increases, especially considering night and weekend coverage, and workforce shortages.
Recommend: Not changing the current standard of 72 hours max. Or, Align with ARTS Regs which would help with consistency in dual units: Psychiatric consultation provided within 24 hours of request; consultation and emergency coverage available 24/7.
Could further note Psychiatric evaluation within 72 hours max, or sooner if symptoms required, and consultation available 24/7. This would allow for quick medication reviews by phone, and full evals later.