The secretary shall develop a system of more integrated service delivery, including incentives to discourage the inappropriate placement of persons with developmental disabilities, head injury, and substance abuse, at state mental hospitals and encourage their care in community settings. By December 1, 1992, the department shall submit an implementation strategy, including budget proposals, to the appropriate committees of the legislature for this system.

Under the system, state, local, or community agencies may be given financial or other incentives to develop appropriate crisis intervention and community care arrangements.

The secretary may establish specialized care programs for persons described in this section on the grounds of the state hospitals. Such programs may operate according to professional standards that do not conform to existing federal or private hospital accreditation standards.

Intent—1992 c 230: See note following RCW 72.23.025.