Should general hospitals accept involuntary psychiatric patients? A panel discussion.

The issue of whether involuntary patients can be treated safely and effectively on inpatient psychiatry units of general hospitals is addressed from several points of view. Parallels are drawn between contemporary reform efforts and 19th century hospital psychiatry, and the danger of repeating errors of the past is pointed out. An account follows, illustrating the recent planning process for mental health care in Massachusetts and recommending the active participation of psychiatrists in that process. Also discussed are the differences in the process of establishing a treatment alliance with voluntary and involuntary patients. The practical considerations in the development of a locked unit in a general hospital area explored, with respect to its effect on reimbursement, the private practice model, and the length and appropriateness of stay. In conclusion, the shared concern is stated that, in respect to making the transition from one system of care to another, safeguards be built in to protect and expand good treatment.