§ 17a-453j — Program for persons diagnosed with recent-onset schizophrenia spectrum disorder. Report.

(a) The Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services, in consultation with the Commissioner of Children and Families, shall establish, within available appropriations, a program for persons diagnosed with recent-onset schizophrenia spectrum disorder for specialized treatment early in such persons' psychosis. Such program shall serve as a hub for the state-wide dissemination of information regarding best practices for the provision of early intervention services to persons diagnosed with a recent-onset schizophrenia spectrum disorder. Such program shall address (1) the limited knowledge of (A) region-specific needs in treating such disorder, (B) the prevalence of first-episode psychosis in persons diagnosed with such disorder, and (C) disparities across different regions in treating such disorder, (2) uncertainty regarding the availability and readiness of clinicians to implement early intervention services for persons diagnosed with such disorder and such persons' families, and (3) funding of and reimbursement for early intervention services available to persons diagnosed with such disorder. (b) The program established pursuant to subsection (a) of this section shall perform the following functions: (1) Develop structured curricula, online resources and videoconferencing-based case conferences to disseminate information for the development of knowledge and skills relevant to patients with first-episode psychosis and such patients' families; (2) Assess and improve the quality of early intervention services available to persons diagnosed with a recent-onset schizophrenic spectrum disorder across the state; (3) Provide expert input on complex cases of a recent-onset schizophrenic spectrum disorder and launch a referral system for consultation with persons having expertise in treating such disorders; (4) Share lessons and resources from any campaigns aimed at reducing the duration of untreated psychosis to improve local pathways to care for persons with such disorders; (5) Serve as an incubator for new evidence-based treatment approaches and pilot such approaches for deployment across the state; (6) Advocate for policies addressing the financing, regulation and provision of services for persons with such disorders; and (7) Collaborate with state agencies to improve outcomes for persons diagnosed with first-episode psychosis in areas including, but not limited to, crisis services and employment services. (c) Not later than January 1, 2025, and annually thereafter, the Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services shall report, in accordance with the provisions of section 11-4a , to the joint standing committee of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to public health, regarding the functions and outcomes of the program for specialized treatment early in psychosis and any recommendations for legislation to address the needs of persons diagnosed with recent-onset schizophrenic spectrum disorders.

Legislative History

(P.A. 24-19, S. 27.) History: P.A. 24-19 effective May 21, 2024.