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    Maryland Department of Health
    Resident Grievance System

    Resident Grievance System

    Frequently Asked Questions

    1. What is the Resident Grievance System?

    2. How can I file a grievance if I think that my rights have been violated?

    3. What is the role of a Rights Advisor?

    4. What is the role of a Legal Assistant Provider?

    5. Does the RGS publish an Annual Report of activities?

    6. How can the RGS be contacted?

    7. How can the RGS assist me with discharge

     

    What is the Resident Grievance System?

    The Resident Grievance System (RGS) is a program under the auspices of the Behavioral Health and Disabilities Division of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH). The RGS was created by a negotiated class action lawsuit, Coe vHughes. The RGS is a program for the protection of patients’ rights in the State psychiatric hospitals, Secured Evaluation Therapeutic Treatment (SETT) units and, the Developmental Disabilities Administration State Residential Centers.

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    How can I file a grievance if I think that my rights have been violated?

    To file a grievance, an individual must be either voluntarily or involuntarily committed to one of the three types of facilities discussed in Frequently Asked Questions (1). If the individual satisfies that requirement, under Complaint Process in the Quick Links section, a flow chart is provided on how to file a grievance.

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    What is the role of a Rights Advisor?

    A Rights Advisor (RA) responds to complaints alleging rights violations, assist residents in preserving their rights, serve as advocates for patients at forced medication panels and provide patients rights education to residents and staff. At least one RA is assigned to the three types of facilities discussed in Frequently Asked Question (1).

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    What is the role of a Legal Assistant Provider?

     Legal Assistant Provider ‘s (LAP’s) are responsible for providing legal assistance to residents at Stages 3 and 4 of the RGS. They assist in obtaining benefits and entitlements, representing patients at administrative and circuit court appeals in forced medication panels and assisting patients with general civil claims by making referrals to pro bono legal services. At least one LAP is assigned to the three types of facilities discussed in Frequently Asked Question (1)

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    Does the RGS publish an Annual Report of activities?

    Yes. The RGS publishes an Annual Report of the preceding years activities. The Annual Report can be found under the Quick Links section.

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    How can the RGS be contacted?

    The RGS can be contacted at 410 767-1051 or toll free at 1 800 747 7454

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    How can the RGS assist me with discharge?

    Discharges issues (Aftercare Planning) are handled through the Social Work Department and shared with the Treatment Team. Residents dicharge planning is an ongoing process and is constructed and individualized o comply with issues ranging from legal isssues, finances, homelessness (housing program/day program), medications, psychiatric care, conditional release (can last up to five years if needed) and CFAP involvement."

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