An analysis of a state hospital population subject to release under Florida law

Section XI of the Florida Mental Health Act, or Baker Act, mandates the review of prior hospitalization orders for each resident patient. Those retained become voluntary patients, unless placed on involuntary status under procedures outlined in the act. As a result, many patients will probably be released. Staff from the Florida State University School of Social Work analyzed patients at Florida State Hospital from one catchment area and detailed their demographic characteristics, treatment needs, and interpersonal and financial resources. The researchers found that the area's one mental health center and four nursing homes would not be adequate community resources for meeting the patients' needs. They conclude that the release of many patients would create hardships both for the patient and for the service personnel in the community, and might be considered a violation of the intent of the act.