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Subject: Re: [MI-Genealogy] Mental Institutes for Michigan (Wayne, Detroit)FYI
Date: Sat, 14 May 2005 18:28:00 EDT
Like so much in geneology research, the original name of an institution and
specific location are important in locating relevant information about a
specific Individual which often is hindered by resources with spelling errors
and similar street names in multiple cities.
I offer some related facts hoping to assist those seeking information about
ancestors who lived in MI mental institutions.
1: A web address submitted for the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Facility located
in Kalamazoo, Kalamazoo Ct, MI. on Oakland ST is no longer correct. However
information regarding this facility once known as Kalamazoo Insane Asylum is
accessible through the Mental Health listing on the Home page at
_www.michigan.gov_ (http://www.michigan.gov) .
2: Many psychiatric institutions have been closed, converted to other uses
with new names or torn down making it more difficult to locate specific
records since the law mandating the "deinstitutionalization" of patients from
long term, custodial care in MI mental hospitals was implemented. (In the 1980s
I think.).
3: A new mental health code has been signed into law by the governor of MI
this year. One section designed to protect patient privacy specifies who may
obtain records and what information must be submitted to release them. It
might make it more difficult for some of us seeking information about a deceas
ed relative. I think one must prove a relationship to the person and
present legal authority to acess such records. The new mental health laws have
been available recently to read at _www.michigan.gov._ (http://www.michigan.gov.)
Robin
.
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