Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Governor’s Task Force on the Delaware Psychiatric Center Announces First Public Meeting and Launch of Task Force Website

Dover – Today, the co-chairs of the Governor’s Task Force on the Delaware Psychiatric Center (DPC) announced the date and time of the group’s first meeting, along with the launch of the new task force website, which will detail the panel’s proceedings and keep the public continually updated on its progress.

The group’s first meeting will be from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 17 in Training Rooms 1&2 at the Springer Building on the Herman M. Holloway Sr. Health and Social Services campus.

“The work ahead of us is challenging but extremely important,” said Rita Landgraf, co-chair of the DPC Task Force. “Each member brings a wealth of professional experience to the table. Ultimately by working together, our goal is to make realistic and effective recommendations that will continue to improve the quality of care for some of Delaware’s most vulnerable citizens.”

The nine member task force was created by Governor Minner on August 17 to examine opportunities for continued improvement at the DPC. The members are charged with reviewing key areas of the DPC and its operations and making recommendations. Members will work to understand best medical practices for patient care, program improvement, and community placement options, and they will provide recommendations to the Governor on issues, such as hiring procedures, training, professional development opportunities for staff, and potential designs for a new facility.

Monday’s meeting is open to the public. “We want to provide the public with unprecedented public access to the proceedings,” said co-chair Peter M. Ross.

The DPC Task Force Website is available at www.dpctaskforce.delaware.gov. It includes an introductory letter from co-chairs Rita Landgraf and Peter M. Ross, a summary of Executive Order 100, which created the Task Force, and current press releases, which will detail proceedings of the Task Force.

The website will also include streaming video and audio of the meetings for those who cannot attend.

Monday’s meeting will include an overview of the Delaware Psychiatric Center, a review of the 2002 Joint Sunset Committee Final and Interim Reports, a discussion of best practices, and remarks from DHSS Cabinet Secretary Vincent P. Meconi.

The Task Force is due to make recommendations to Governor Minner no later than December 15, 2007.