NOTICE OF PRIVACY
To view the South Mississippi State Hospital's Notice of Privacy Practices, click here
CAN I CONTACT MY FAMILY MEMBER?
The patient designates those family members with whom he/she would like to visit or talk. The patient is given a telephone code to give to family members. The staff will request the telephone code before speaking with a family member. A telephone is available for the patient to contact family members. Mail can be sent to the hospital address and will be delivered to patients if the patient wishes. No flowers or balloons can be delivered to patients.
HOW LONG WILL MY FAMILY MEMBER BE AT SMSH?
The patients’ length of stay is determined by the patient’s response to treatment. SMSH is an acute psychiatric hospital, so, generally, patients stay for two to four weeks. Those patients requiring long-term treatment may require transfer to a facility that provides continued treatment.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MY FAMILY MEMBER IS READY TO LEAVE?
When the treatment team makes the decision that it is appropriate for the patient to be discharged, the family is contacted. The patient, family member and members of the treatment team may meet to discuss the patient’s aftercare. Depending on the patient’s condition, an outpatient treatment plan is developed and explained to the family. Many patients go home on medications, and it is vital that these medications be taken on a daily basis. Patients are discharged from the main lobby of the hospital at the front entrance.
CAN I TALK TO THE SMSH STAFF ABOUT MY FAMILY MEMBER?
While SMSH staff recognizes that you are concerned about your family member, we are restricted, by the patient’s confidentiality rights, to talking with only those family members the patient chooses to receive information. The patient signs a release form designating the family members with whom the staff may speak.
WILL MY FAMILY MEMBER BE BILLED FOR THIS HOSPITAL STAY?
The patient is responsible for payment of all services received at South Mississippi State Hospital. However, whenever possible, SMSH will bill insurance or Medicare. Any balance left owing is the patient’s responsibility. Monthly payment plans are available. Discounts may be available based on income.
WHAT DOES MY FAMILY MEMBER NEED TO BRING?
PATIENTS NEED TO BRING THE FOLLOWING ITEMS
- Picture identification
- Insurance card(s)
- Medicare card
- Social Security card
- Six (6) sets of clothes (no draw strings)
- Two (2) pair of shoes
- Two (2) pair of pajamas (no draw strings)
- One (1) pair of house shoes
PATIENTS DO NOT NEED TO BRING THE FOLLOWING
- Food or candy
- Electrical items
- Lighters or matches
- Tobacco products
- Weapons or any item that can be used as a weapon
- Crocs or similar styled shoes.