Detroit City Wire

Michigan State Senator Michael Webber has raised concerns about the state’s inpatient psychiatric care system, citing findings from a recent audit that indicate significant shortcomings in patient protection and oversight. According to Webber, families have reported issues such as physical abuse, poor living conditions, insufficient food, understaffing, and lack of communication at state-run facilities.

Webber referenced an independent investigation published on September 30 by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) into the Office of Recipient Rights (ORR), which operates within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The ORR is responsible for safeguarding the rights of individuals receiving public mental health services.

“I requested this review two years ago because families have been coming to me with alarming stories, such as physical abuse, poor living conditions, insufficient food, short staffing, and a lack of communication from facility personnel,” Webber stated.

The audit found that more than 30% of sampled complaints involving abuse, neglect, serious injury or death were not investigated immediately as required. Additionally, nearly 40% of investigations had delayed status reports or lacked enough information to assess timeliness. Almost 20% of cases reviewed did not see timely completion or intervention.

State law requires that investigations be initiated promptly—within 24 hours for serious allegations—and completed within 90 days. However, nearly 30% of reviewed cases took between 98 days and almost 14 months to conclude. In many instances where video evidence could have clarified incidents—over 40% according to the OAG—cameras were either not functioning or absent at five state psychiatric hospitals.

“When the state accepts responsibility for those in psychiatric care, it accepts a sacred trust: to defend their dignity, to protect their rights, and to act swiftly when those rights are threatened or violated,” Webber said.

Webber has introduced legislation aimed at strengthening patient rights and improving oversight in state-run psychiatric hospitals. He also called for legislative hearings on these issues.

He addressed MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel directly: “Oversight is not optional. Accountability is not a suggestion. It is a charge owed to every patient and every family who places their trust in your care.”

Senator Webber represents Michigan’s 9th district and serves as minority vice chair on the Senate Committee on Health Policy. His remarks appeared in an op-ed published by The Detroit News on October 5.