The New York City Community Mental Health Board: A Progress Report

Abstract

The trend of responsibility for mental health services to be provided by local communities rather than dependence upon the State governments is discussed in this progress report on the New York City Community Mental Health Board. Cited are various programs undertaken and supported by the local board in its planning and development activities concerning community mental health services. The integration of the available psychiatric facilities already provided under both governmental and voluntary auspices, and the establishment of expanded and new program modalities are included as of special interest. The operation of a community mental health program within the framework of municipal government indicates that a soundly progressive and well-balanced program can be achieved only through a clear acceptance of the broad range of responsibilities of the community mental health board as the local government agency.