Grading the States 2009 Report Card: District of Columbia

In 2006, the mental health care system in the nation’s capital received a grade of C. Three years later, its grade has not moved. It is not yet on firm ground, lacking both stable leadership and independence. Full narrative (PDF).

Grades by Category Detailed Score Card (PDF)

Health Promotion and Measurement: D 25% of Total Grade
Basic measures, such as the number of programs delivering evidence-based practices, emergency room wait-times, and the quantity of psychiatric beds by setting.
Financing & Core Treatment/Recovery Services: B 45% of Total Grade
A variety of financing measures, such as whether Medicaid reimburses providers for all, or part of evidence-based practices; and more.
Consumer & Family Empowerment: D 15% of Total Grade
Includes measures such as consumer and family access to essential information from the state, promotion of consumer-run programs, and family and peer education and support.
Community Integration and Social Inclusion: C 15% of Total Grade
Includes activities that require collaboration among state mental health agencies and other state agencies and systems.

Innovations

300 new units of supportive housing
Drop-in center with peer specialists

Urgent Needs

Expand ACT programs
Increase stable and affordable housing
Improve and increase St. Elizabeth’s staff recruitment
Adopt CIT

Additional Information and Resources

Full Narrative (PDF) | Detailed Score Card (PDF) | Full Report | Order Hard Copy

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Grading the States 2006 Report Card: District of Columbia

"Having an experienced professional provider is a must ... That person must demonstrate compassion, respect, and a strong desire to help improve the lives of those he/she serves."