Forensic Psychiatric Hospital
The licensed Forensic Psychiatric Hospital (FPH) provides forensic services in a 28-bed facility.
The patients in this unit have not been adjudicated to serve prison sentences. They are court-ordered to the FPH for evaluation for competency to stand trial and/or for restoration to competency to stand trial. The Forensic Hospital is utilized by State courts, mental health facilities, and county jails. It is licensed by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals, and is required to abide by the law as defined in the Iowa Administrative Code, Section 481, Chapter 51, "Hospitals."
The Mission: "We strive to meet the needs of our patients, the public and the Iowa Judicial System, through the provision of evaluations, treatments and care for those patients who are: Awaiting competency evaluation, Receiving treatment to restore competency, Discharged from prison, but who are civilly committed and awaiting appropriate placement; and, Found not guilty by reason of insanity."
The Forensic Hospital is staffed by a director and assistant directors, psychiatrist, registered nurses, correctional officers, administrative support and other treatment staff such as a social worker, counselor and activities specialist. The average length of stay for a forensic patient is approximately 73 days.
