Key Insights from the MHCA 2017
The MHCA 2017 introduces several provisions that can help practitioners in setting up and managing Mental Health Establishments (MHEs). Here are some key points to consider:1. Infrastructure Planning
- Ensure adequate space for consulting rooms, examination rooms, and specialized equipment like ECT machines.
- Strive for an eco-friendly setup with provisions for solid waste management and appropriate sewage treatment.
2. Staff Recruitment
- Recruit both medical and non-medical staff through a well-defined human resources protocol.
- Clearly delineate employee duties, duty hours, leaves, and benefits at the time of recruitment.
3. Mental Health Facilities
- Begin with outpatient services and accumulate sufficient experience before initiating inpatient services.
- Ensure the availability of emergency care facilities for acute cases.
4. Specialty Services
- Deaddiction services require adequate staffing and facilities to manage drug-seeking behavior.
- Child and adolescent mental health centers need specialized staff and infrastructure, including a play area.
5. Licensing and Accreditation
- Obtain necessary licenses like trade licenses, pollution control board licenses, and fire department no-objection certificates.
- Consider National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) accreditation for quality assurance.
6. Financial Planning
- Plan for fund mobilization, loans, and investments to ensure financial sustainability.
7. Compliance and Legal Aspects
- Maintain basic medical records and comply with the MHCA 2017 mandates.
- Prepare for periodic audits and inspections to ensure adherence to minimum standards.
Why Practitioners Should Care
Implementing the insights from the MHCA 2017 can significantly improve the quality of care provided to patients. It also helps in bridging the treatment gap, which is a pressing issue in India's mental health landscape. Practitioners can also explore new treatment options and innovative methods of psychiatric care more attuned to the local population.Encouraging Further Research
While the MHCA 2017 provides a robust framework, continuous research is essential for adapting to new challenges and improving mental health services. Practitioners are encouraged to stay updated with the latest research and incorporate evidence-based practices into their service delivery.To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Founding and managing a mental health establishment under the Mental Healthcare Act 2017
