What is the difference between an inpatient and an outpatient mental health facility?
Inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities provide different types of care and services in South Carolina. An inpatient mental health facility is a hospital or residential treatment center that provides 24-hour care and services for those diagnosed with a mental health condition. Inpatient facilities provide structured, supervised settings and offer individualized care and treatment plans that may include medication management, individual and group counseling, and other therapies. An outpatient mental health facility is a program or facility where individuals can receive therapeutic services on a less frequent basis. Outpatient facilities provide mental health services such as individual and group counseling, family counseling, and psychotherapy. These services may be provided for brief periods of time, or on a recurring basis depending on individual needs. Outpatient mental health facilities also provide support, education, and case management services. In South Carolina, both inpatient and outpatient mental health facilities must be licensed and certified by the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services in order to provide services. Outpatient facilities do not provide 24-hour care and do not require patients to be admitted for an extended stay. Inpatient facilities provide more intensive levels of care and require patients to stay for a period of time.
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