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Summary
Hawaii ranked last in care for the seriously mentally ill (SDMI) in 1986 and 1988. This spurred a critical re-evaluation of mental health services, aiming for improved support for this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Mental Healthcare Policy
- Social Services Evaluation
Background:
- Hawaii has historically positioned itself as a national leader in mental health and social services.
- National rankings in 1986 and 1988 by Public Citizen Health Research Group placed Hawaii last (51st) in care for the seriously mentally ill.
- These rankings initially caused disbelief within Hawaii's mental health community.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the impact of national rankings on the perception and reality of mental health services in Hawaii.
- To stimulate a re-evaluation of services provided to the seriously disabled mentally ill (SDMI).
- To advocate for enhanced, broad-based commitment to improving care for the SDMI population.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of national rankings and their reception within the state.
- Review of existing data and information regarding the care of the seriously mentally ill.
- Qualitative assessment of the mental health community's reaction and subsequent attention.
Main Results:
- The national rankings, despite methodological criticisms, significantly increased focus on the state of care for the SDMI.
- The report prompted a critical examination of Hawaii's mental health service provision.
- Increased attention is now directed towards understanding the actual conditions and needs of the SDMI in Hawaii.
Conclusions:
- The rankings served as a catalyst for re-examining and potentially improving mental health services for the seriously disabled mentally ill in Hawaii.
- There is a need for a renewed and comprehensive commitment to support this often-overlooked population.
- The long-term outcome anticipated is an enhancement of services and care for the SDMI population in the state.