State looks to use modular unit in Waterbury as secure facility for mental health patients
Meanwhile, a temporary facility in Morrisville has been delayed; an eight-bed recovery unit is approved; and lawmakers and the Shumlin administration tussle over state hospital location.
Shumlin approves funding for Waterbury state offices in first bill signing after session
Lawmakers re-allocated capital bill money with Irene damage in mind.
VSEA applauds governor’s decision to build a 25-bed facility
“VSEA and its VSH caregivers thank the Governor for listening to the House and to the sound, professional advice he was getting from doctors, nurses and all the other mental health experts,” said VSEA President John Reese.
Shumlin: Administration and lawmakers agree state workers will return to Waterbury; state hospital will be 25 beds
Shumlin said lawmakers and his administration have agreed to replace the state office complex that was damaged by Tropical Storm Irene with “Plan B.”
Shumlin administration cuts retirement deal with VSH workers, gets green light on Morrisville facility
According to figures given to the committee, 20 VSH employees have over 25 years of service, and many have five or less.
Benning: Politics vs. common sense
The cynic in me believes the governor is facing the reality that his campaign promises cannot be fulfilled without mass layoffs or dramatic tax increases.
Thomashow & Tautfest: Patient safety trumps money and politics
This lack of immediate access to intensive care greatly increases the possibility of an untoward event occurring.
Nease: Bed numbers for mentally ill is just a political tug of war
In the final analysis, the debate about 16 vs. 25 will diminish in importance because the enhanced community resources and the new care management system will be in place long before a shovel goes into the ground for the new facility.
Senate approves 16-bed psychiatric facility to replace Vermont State Hospital
UPDATED The stage is now set for a contentious conference committee negotiations, which will likely take place after the town meeting break.
As Senate takes up state hospital proposal, governor issues warning
“We are running a business here in the respect that government is an operation that has to be fiscally responsible,” Shumlin said.
