Mental health experts, police discuss crisis response

Northeast Delta Human Services Authority recently hosted its third summitat University Health Conway to focus on improving coordinated care for people in crises situations who suffer from mental health issues, addictive disorders and developmental disabilities.

Dr. Monteic Sizer, NE Delta HSA executive director, facilitated the meeting attended by regional sheriffs, police chiefs, coroners and elected officials. It was announced at the meeting that an inpatient psychiatric facility is in the works for Marion. The facility will be financed and operated by private investors who will work closely with public entities to determine and meet regional needs.

“Catalyzing the coordination of care for citizens experiencing a crisis, particularly those who may suffer from co-occurring mental health, substance issues and developmental disabilities, is one my top priorities,” Sizer said. “We have listened, we have heard and now it is time to act. There will be more systematic planning needed to open this facility, but our efforts to date have put us well on our way. A new inpatient psychiatric facility will not solve all of the region’s problems. Rather, it is designed to speak to an identified need, which we will address using our Integrated Services Model, which employs extensive collaboration among groups who all work toward better health outcomes for the citizens of northeast Louisiana.”

Sizer said the local and regional effort is to address crisis needs faced by law enforcement communities from citizens who present a danger to themselves or others. Solving this facet of the problem will require additional action among communities, but starting a new inpatient psychiatric facility will benefit the population, he said.

University Health Conway Administrator Larry Donner voiced his thanks to NE Delta HSA for its work in providing additional services in the community.

“We hope to identify additional ways to help,” he said.

“Dr. Sizer is progressive, even in these difficult times, and I’m proud to be a part of a group of health care providers to positively affect outcomes,” said Dr. Lester Johnson, University Health Conway’s chief of surgery and dean of rural health initiatives.

Bland Greeson, Rayville recovery administrator, is working to put the new inpatient psychiatric facility in place in Marion.

“I have a passion for recovery. My priority here today is to offer excellent care in Marion and help get this region well. We want to treat not only those with mental health issues, but also those who need help with addiction.”

Maj. Chad Alexander with the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office said law enforcement has seen an increase in the number of people who need mental health assistance on emergency response calls.

“The law enforcement community recognizes this and wants to make every effort to get people the help they need,” Alexander said.