The Daily
The Profitable Business of Holding Patients Against Their Will
Sep 26, 2024
In this engaging discussion, investigative reporter Jessica Silver-Greenberg exposes alarming abuses within the mental health care system, focusing on the for-profit Acadia Healthcare. She reveals how profit motives can overshadow patient welfare, featuring Kathy McKenzie, who shares her personal experience with involuntary commitment. They delve into the manipulative tactics used to extend hospital stays and the emotional toll on patients. The episode sheds light on urgent ethical concerns while calling for a reevaluation of mental health practices.
38:14
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Quick takeaways
- Acadia Healthcare prioritizes profits over patient needs, manipulating commitments and insurance payouts while compromising care quality.
- Kathy McKenzie's traumatic experience exemplifies the systemic issues within the psychiatric hospital chain, exposing the vulnerability of patients seeking help.
Deep dives
The Rise of Acadia Healthcare
Acadia Healthcare, established in 2005, has grown to become one of America’s largest chains of psychiatric hospitals, capitalizing on a shift in the mental health care landscape. As traditional nonprofit systems have pulled back, Acadia has stepped in to meet the increasing demand for mental health services, particularly following the introduction of mandated mental health coverage under Obamacare. This strategic timing has allowed Acadia to expand rapidly, resulting in a valuation of $7 billion and presence in 19 states. Their corporate growth has positioned them to play a crucial role in the mental health sector, but this success raises questions about the quality and ethical implications of care provided.
