Inadequate Outpatient Mental Health Triage and Care of a Patient at the Chico Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in California.
Washington, DC: VA Office of the Inspector General; February 2, 2023. Report no. 22-01363-52.
Gaps in care for psychologically vulnerable patients can result in harm to family members and self-harm. This report examines organizational failures in responding to staff and clinical leaders’ concerns regarding access, triage, and care continuity for mental health patients. Recommendations for improvement include same-day access to appropriate specialty care, medication management, and risk documentation.