Psychiatry Services at Sacramento County's Youth Detention Facility Open Enrollment

Pursuant to Title 15 of the California Code of Regulations (see Attachment A, Title 15 Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities), local detention facilities are required to provide access to behavioral/mental health services, which encompass crisis intervention, management of acute psychiatric episodes, stabilization to prevent psychiatric deterioration, medication support, and evaluations by licensed clinicians when indicated. These minimum standards are established and enforced by the Board of State and Community Corrections and are intended to ensure the safety, welfare, and appropriate treatment of individuals in detention. Title 15 also requires that all youth receive an initial behavioral health screening at intake to identify urgent mental health needs, including suicide risk and acute psychiatric symptoms. Youth identified as having potential psychiatric needs must be referred for further evaluations by licensed behavioral/mental health clinicians, psychologist, or psychiatrist, as appropriate. Facilities must ensure timely access to psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services, including medication evaluation and ongoing medication management when clinically indicated. YDF is responsible for implementing systems and processes to ensure compliance with Title 15, including timely identification and referral of youth with behavioral health needs, facilitating access to psychiatric services, and maintaining a safe and secure environment for service delivery. BHS is responsible for the clinical oversight and administration of psychiatric services, ensuring the quality and appropriateness of care, coordinating treatment planning and crisis response. These requirements establish the framework within which psychiatric services must be delivered and inform BHS' need to engage qualified providers and organizations through this Open Enrollment process.