2014 death at Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital leads to resignation
Thirteen of 28 employees suspended during an investigation into patient abuse allegations at Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital are returning to work, the Michigan Department of Community Health announced today.
KALAMAZOO, MI -- Thirteen of 28 employees suspended during an investigation into patient abuse allegations at Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital are returning to work, the Michigan Department of Community Health announced today.
"Although these individuals may have been involved in the issues being investigated, the quality of care being provided to patients can be ensured through appropriate training and supervision," a MDCH press release said.
Trainings being conducted this week will include the returning employees and consist of the nationally recognized Non-Abusive Psychological and Physical Intervention methods, the release said.
"We believe that by beginning to return employees to the hospital, we can improve the safety for staff and patients," Tim Becker, MDCH senior deputy director, said in the release. "We believe that by beginning to return employees to the hospital, we can improve the safety for staff and patients."
KPH has been under scrutiny since the spring, following the death of a patient. Allegations of patient abuse prompted several resignations, including the KPH director, followed by suspension of 28 staff with pay in early October.
Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety is investigating criminal complaints against 16 of those workers.
Last week, Michigan Department of Community Health announced it has contracted with Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services to conduct an independent evaluation of KPH. It is the hopsital's first independent evaluation.
Allen Jansen, who was appointed interim director of KPH on Oct. 27, is on leave from his position as the corporate director of community and residential services at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. Jansen will work with Pine Rest staff throughout the hospital's evaluation process.
"Earlier this year, the department began taking steps to change the organizational structure at the hospital to support the safety of both patients and staff, and to ensure quality care," today's press release said. "As part of these efforts, additional direct care staff has been hired and leadership continues to work with staff on
education and training regarding appropriate policies and procedures."
KPH has about 138 patients and about 508 full-time employees.