Public Hearing on Declining Patient Population at Wernersville State Hospital [29 Pa.B. 3037] The Department of Public Welfare (Department) will hold a public hearing on the declining patient population at Wernersville State Hospital, Berks County on June 29, 1999, at the Reading Area Community College. The hearing is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. A new State law, Act 1999-3, requires the Department to hold a public hearing on any State mental health or mental retardation facility within 30 days following a reduction of 20% or more in resident/patient census or staff complement or a closure announcement.
There has been a decrease of at least 20% in patient population at Wernersville State Hospital since December 31, 1997, due to numerous factors, primarily implementation of successful Community Hospital Integration Project Program initiatives, advancement in pharmacological treatment for many patients and enhancements to the community mental health system which provide alternatives to State hospital inpatient treatment.
Individuals or organizations wishing to testify should contact Gary Beese, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services' Harrisburg Field Office Director at (717) 772-6650 by June 25. Individuals requiring a special accommodation are asked to inform the Department at the time of scheduling.
FEATHER O. HOUSTOUN,
Secretary[Pa.B. Doc. No. 99-943. Filed for public inspection June 11, 1999, 9:00 a.m.]
