Review of state-run psychiatric hospital blames leadership

Gov. Dan McKee is flanked by (from left) RI Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities, and Hospitals Director Richard Charest and RI Health and Human Services Secretary Womazetta Jones on June 30, 2021, outlining findings of a 60-day probe by Jones into problems at the state-run Eleanor Slater Hospital. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A review of the state-run Eleanor Slater Hospital by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services lays blame for problems at the facility squarely on the shoulders of hospital leadership.

The review released Wednesday by state Health and Human Services Secretary Womazetta Jones says current leadership has lost the trust and confidence of staff, community, stakeholders and state lawmakers.

Gov. Daniel McKee requested the review.

The last-resort hospital treats residents with long-term medical and psychiatric needs at campuses in Cranston and Burrillville.

Jones’ review also makes about 70 recommendations that McKee says he will consider to better serve patients.