THE COLLEGE OF REGISTERED PSYCHIATRIC NURSES OF ALBERTA
URGES VIGILANCE IN ENSURING NO REDUCTION OF MENTAL HEALTH BEDS AND SERVICES

 

Alberta Health Services (AHS) announced it was accelerating its “move to community-based mental health care…..following a decision by AHS not to proceed with the redevelopment of the Alberta Hospital Edmonton (AHE) site”.

The College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta (CRPNA) while it supports community-based models of mental health care is resolute in its position that appropriate mental health services and resources must first be put in place in the community and other hospitals prior to transitioning any services from AHE into the community. Inpatient beds at Alberta Hospital Edmonton are an essential and integral part of the continuum of mental health care provided at AHE.

A government-commissioned report by McDermott Consulting found that Alberta had about a quarter the national average of inpatient psychiatric beds. This speaks to the dire need for vigilance in ensuring that there is not a reduction in inpatient mental health beds and services in Alberta . Acute assessment, stabilization and treatment services in mental health, including secure inpatient beds, must continue to be available and also enhanced in areas where few or no services currently exist.

The College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta is committed to consultation and participation in the strengthening and enhancement of mental health services, and affirms its duty to public safety in mental health care delivery in Alberta .

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Barbara Lowe , Executive Director

College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta (CRPNA)

Phone: (780) 434-7666

Fax: (780) 436-4165