Who Decides Civil Commitments? A Statewide Analysis of Initial Hold Requests.

The authors examine the frequency of civil commitment petitions and rates of congruence within those initial requests. Using data provided by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Division of Behavioral Health, the authors analyzed 32,749 petitions for civil commitment, between 2010 and 2016, as submitted by police officers, inpatient physicians, hospital administrators, and others. Results demonstrate a persistent decrease in the level of congruence with police officers displaying the lowest level of concurrence. Factors contributing to these lower rates are discussed with emphasis given to future research and broader policy consideration and discussion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]