Advancing Hospital Psychiatry in the United States: Challenges and Opportunities

The field of hospital psychiatry has faced unprecedented challenges and opportunities over the past decade, particularly amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the progress made, the need for behavioral health treatments continues to increase, and providers and policymakers agree that integrating these treatments into regular patient care is crucial for addressing post-discharge needs.

Disparities in Access to Behavioral Health Services

Unfortunately, disparities in access to behavioral health services persist, particularly for people of color and members of the LGTBQIA+ community, who often struggle to find culturally competent treatment. There is a significant need for dedicated psychiatric hospitals and dedicated units in general hospitals to meet America’s mental health needs.

Furthermore, inadequate healthcare coverage and reimbursement for services have left both patients and medical providers desperate for reform.Staffing shortages are worsening as practitioners in the baby boomer generation retire and those roles go unfilled by new graduates.

Adapting to Challenges and Finding Solutions

Despite these challenges, psychiatric hospitals continue to adapt and find ways to care for patients. The updated textbook, Hospital Psychiatry, contains valuable knowledge and new insights for clinicians regarding treatment, staffing, and care. New chapters focus on family involvement and safety, federal and local financing, and information on collaborative care and Lean.

Forward-looking chapters examine strategies for integrating treatment across settings and providers, including the use of telemedicine to extend the reach of clinicians. With expert guidance, readers will find a roadmap for clinical, administrative, and financial steps to help providers take advantage of these unprecedented times to develop services and advance hospital psychiatry in the United States.

This comprehensive resource is essential for anyone working in hospital psychiatry, providing valuable insights and strategies for overcoming the challenges facing the field.

Publication Details:

• Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing
• Release Date: October 3, 2022
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9781615373451, 9781615374403