Concerns Rise Over Hawthorn Center’s Care Standards

Categories: Breaking NewsHealthNewsPolitics

Hawthorn Center mental health facility for children.

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News Summary

Significant issues have arisen at Michigan’s only mental health hospital for children, the Hawthorn Center, prompting Senator Michael Webber to advocate for reform. Concerns include patient escapes, an unannounced active shooter drill, and unresolved complaints regarding patient care. With investigations underway and a class action settlement approved, families are demanding accountability and a shift in management to ensure better care for vulnerable youth.

Concerns Rise Over Hawthorn Center’s Care Standards

In Michigan, attention has shifted to the Hawthorn Center, the state’s only mental health hospital for children, following significant concerns regarding patient care and a troubling series of incidents. Recently, Senator Michael Webber took a stand by reaching out to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) director, Elizabeth Hertel, to express these worries.

Disturbing Incidents Spark Alarm

The senator’s letter sheds light on a multitude of issues at Hawthorn Center. These are not just minor complaints; we’re talking about serious matters like patient escapes, a chaotic and unannounced active shooter drill, and an unsettling number of violent attacks. Adding to the concern, there have been settled lawsuits along with persistent complaints about nutritional support and recipient rights that have gone unanswered.

In his letter, Webber noted that investigations into the management of the entire state hospital system are currently underway and, as he delved deeper into MDHHS operations, he became increasingly alarmed by the deteriorating conditions faced by the hospital.

Active Shooter Drill Causes National Outcry

The situation at Hawthorn Center drew national attention after an active shooter drill in December 2022 led to panic. This drill was conducted without any warning to patients, most staff, and local law enforcement, resulting in chaos as police responded to actual 911 calls. This reckless event culminated in an October 2023 ruling by the Michigan Court of Claims, which approved a $13 million class action settlement for affected patients and staff—individuals who suffered psychological distress, including PTSD, as a result of the drill.

A Call for Accountability and Change

Webber has been vocal about the apparent lack of accountability within the MDHHS, criticizing how the mental health system has been managed by the current administration. The settlement allocates approximately $9 million for those individuals who were reportedly traumatized during the incident, raising serious questions about how care is delivered at this facility.

Delay in Audit Completion

In addition to these worries, there seems to be an ongoing delay regarding an audit examining patient care and rights that has been pending for over a year. Initially expected to wrap up by early 2025, it has since been pushed back to summer 2025, leaving many families concerned and frustrated.

Webber’s Advocacy for Patient Rights

As a response to these critical issues, Senator Webber is championing legislation aimed at ensuring that patients are thoroughly informed of their rights the moment they enter mental health facilities. His initiative also includes plans to diversify the oversight board, pulling in advocacy groups that can represent patient rights more effectively.

Complaints and Security Issues

Families have been voicing their dissatisfaction with unanswered recipient rights complaints, often dealing with long wait times or having their issues ignored entirely. Additionally, there have been evident problems with the security camera systems within the facility, which has led to calls for better access to video footage for increased accountability.

Whistleblowers Face Retaliation

In a worrying twist, a whistleblower from the Hawthorn Center reported experiencing harassment after shedding light on the dire conditions within the hospital. This has raised alarms about workplace culture and safety for those trying to advocate for change.

Current Status of Hawthorn Center

As of now, Hawthorn Center is undergoing demolition, with a new facility set to be built. Meanwhile, existing patients have been relocated to the Walter Reuther Psychiatric Hospital in Westland. However, concerns about the management of that facility persist as well, illustrating ongoing challenges within the state’s mental health system.

Overall Need for Reform

Senator Webber has emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive reform within the MDHHS. Vulnerable patients deserve better care and support, and drastic changes are needed to ensure their well-being and safety moving forward. The spotlight remains on Hawthorn Center, as communities and advocates continue to fight for necessary reforms to protect Michigan’s youth in care.