Admission: What Families Can Expect
We understand that having a loved one admitted to Mississippi State Hospital can be an emotional and unfamiliar experience. Our staff are here to help make the admission process as smooth as possible and ensure your loved one receives the care and support they need.
Arriving at MSH
Most patients arrive at Mississippi State Hospital accompanied by local law enforcement. Upon arrival, MSH Police and Admissions staff will assist with the admission process.
During admission, your loved one will:
- Have their temperature and general health checked, including screening for any unreported injuries or illnesses.
- Complete a safety and security screening.
- Have personal belongings inventoried. Items that are not permitted on the treatment unit will be securely stored.
- Have money, credit cards, and other financial items inventoried and secured through the hospital cashier’s office.
- Complete required admission and benefits paperwork.
- Have a photograph taken for their hospital record.
- Receive information about their rights as a patient.
- Be escorted to their assigned treatment building.
The admission process generally takes 30 minutes to one hour, although the length of time may vary depending on the individual and the amount of belongings brought with them.
Please remember: Your loved one only needs approximately one week of clothing. Please refer to our What to Bring guide below for information about permitted and prohibited items.
Once Your Loved One Arrives on the Treatment Unit
The treatment team will begin the initial assessment process. This may include:
- Checking vital signs.
- Reviewing and inventorying medications.
- Completing medical, behavioral health, and other clinical assessments.
- Meeting with members of the treatment team to identify treatment needs and develop an individualized plan of care.
The first few days may involve several assessments, appointments, and introductions as the treatment team gets to know your loved one.
How Can Families Stay Involved?
Family involvement can be an important part of treatment and recovery. Social Services serves as the primary point of contact for families when the patient has provided consent for communication.
If your loved one gives consent, Social Services will contact the family on or shortly after the day of admission and provide information about appropriate ways to participate in treatment.
Due to privacy requirements, MSH staff cannot share protected information about an adult patient with family members without the patient's consent.
For adolescent patients, the legal guardian will be contacted by Social Services as appropriate.
If you have questions about your loved one's admission or how you can participate in their care, Social Services can help explain the process and available resources.
WHAT TO BRING:
- Five (5) complete changes of clothing
- Glasses and/or hearing aids
- Family photos and mementos
- Spending money to deposit into a patient account
DO NOT BRING:
- Jewelry
- Weapons or sharp objects (e.g., pocketknife)
- Breakable glass items
- No personal care products containing alcohol