On Thursday, Commissioner Allie Friesen presented a comprehensive plan aimed at transforming mental health care in Oklahoma. Since taking office at the beginning of the year, Friesen has acknowledged significant challenges within the department, particularly regarding jail-based competency care, which has led to a federal lawsuit against the department.
Friesen emphasized the urgent need to address the deteriorating conditions of the state’s mental health facilities, describing them as neglected. She cited alarming issues, including sewage leaks in crisis facilities and malfunctioning toilets in patient care areas, forcing patients to wait in line for basic needs. Friesen asserted that improving these conditions is a top priority, stating, None of that should be tolerated, and highlighted the necessity for a reality check in the department’s operations.
Additionally, Friesen is focusing on employee safety, noting over 1,000 reported assaults on staff members between January and June. The commissioner’s plan seeks to create a safer and more supportive environment for both patients and employees in Oklahoma’s mental health system.