MINNEAPOLIS, February 29, 2008—Despite the need for new psych beds, the hospital proposed for Woodbury by Prairie St John's does not meet the state's needs, Minnesota Department of Health officials told legislators today.

The MDH told legislators that the proposal for a 144-bed psychiatric facility in Woodbury is too much. It would surpass the state's needs, cost the state $2 million annually in higher medical fees, and add financial strain to existing facilities.

Other hospitals statewide are already readying 36 new beds, which will meet the needs of people who sometimes have had to drive long distances to find a bed.

The state acknowledged that the psych bed supply is far from perfect, a Star Tribune story said. But it maintains that the Prairie St. John's project exceeds the state's needs.

Although the MMA supports and encourages an increase in psychiatric beds, and created a task force in 2007 to address the problem, the MMA declined to unconditionally support the Prairie St. John's proposal.

A news release from Fargo N.D.-based Prairie St. John's said they were "dumbfounded" by the MDH's ruling. They say they intend to obtain an exemption from the state legislature.

The Prairie St. John's plan was opposed by area hospitals and mental health care organizations, who maintained that the big problem for the mentally ill is not finding a bed, but getting the help they need. More psychiatrists and support services for people and families with mental illnesses are what people need the most, they say.

Star Tribune article