Specifications include, but are not limited to: The BHCC (Observation Unit and the Mezzanine Secured Unit) shall operate under the direction of the Department of Health, Adult Mental Health Division. The BHCC will offer a full range of crisis services and interventions twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days per week, for Individuals who are experiencing challenges with homelessness, mental health, and co-occurring disorders. The BHCC will also provide limited nursing care for individuals with a medical condition that has a determined course of treatment and does not require intensive diagnostic and/or invasive procedures. Services shall include clinically informed screenings, assessments, evidence-based treatments, and appropriate referrals. When clinically advisable, the BHCC shall transition individuals out of care at the BHCC and into care with a primary provider who offers support services and housing placement in the community. The BHCC’s policy shall be to provide a warm, welcoming, therapeutic, and integrated approach to individuals with respect, dignity and privacy. The BHCC will promote the safety of staff, individuals, and visitors. Individuals, many of whom have histories of trauma, may be unable to focus on recovery and be more likely to act out behaviorally if they feel threatened or at risk of injury and staff cannot provide optimal care in an environment in which they feel unsafe. Therefore, the BHCC shall provide a secure physical environment and have strategies to address safety concerns as they arise.
