What is the difference between a psychiatric hospital and a general hospital?

The difference between a psychiatric hospital and a general hospital is significant when it comes to mental health treatment in North Carolina. A psychiatric hospital is a specialized facility that provides inpatient mental health treatment in a secure environment. Inpatient treatment is usually required for severe mental illnesses or for people who may be a danger to themselves or others. Generally, stays in psychiatric hospitals last for weeks or months, depending on the mental health condition. This type of facility is staffed by psychiatrists, doctors, nurses, and mental health professionals. contrarily, a general hospital offers acute care for physical illnesses, but usually does not offer specialized mental health treatment. Instead, general hospitals will usually provide short-term crisis services and referrals to mental health providers. In North Carolina, all hospitals are regulated by the state Department of Health and Human Services and must follow certain laws to provide quality care. Specialized psychiatric hospitals also must follow additional federal laws that are designed to protect the confidentiality and rights of patients receiving mental health treatment.

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