The authors view the current wave of closing state mental hospitals
against the background of trends in mental health services during the past
20 years. Although a small number of hospitals has been totally closed, the
overall number of institutions has remained stable due to the opening of
new hospitals, and many states will be forced to consider phasing out
additional hospitals in the immediate future. The closing of hospitals is a
social phenomenon that involves the lives and welfare of patients,
personnel, families, and the community and poses a substantial political
and logistical challenge. The authors make a few suggestions for those who
are contemplating closing hospitals in the future.Abstract Teaser