The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) has released a draft plan for closure of Hiram Davis Medical Center and is seeking public comments on the plan. Public comments should be sent to hdmcplanningteam@dbhds.virginia.gov and are due by September 19, 2025.
As previously reported, DBHDS announced in August 2024 that it was planning to close Hiram Davis Medical Center by the end of 2027, a proposal that is maintained in the draft plan. This facility, which has historically served individuals with complex medical needs who are referred from other DBHDS facilities, or from the community, has not undergone any substantial renovations in the 50 years since it was opened and has HVAC and electrical systems, as well as elevators, at the end of their useful lives; major repairs would require significant displacement of staff and patients. In accordance with Code requirements, a State and Community Planning and Consensus Team was convened to develop a plan to ensure continuity of care as alternative placements are developed for current patients.
The draft plan outlines proposed placements for current patients, as well as the Department’s goal of avoiding any layoffs of current staff. As part of the planned closure, new permanent admissions would cease, and temporary admissions from other DBHDS facilities would be limited. An individualized transition plan would be developed for every patient, which would be developed with the individual and his or her authorized representative; the draft closure plan outlines proposed efforts to ensure continuity of care and gradual transitions, as well as post-transition monitoring.
The closure plan is required to be provided to the Governor, the Joint Commission on Health Care, and the “money committees” by November 1. Final approval rests with the Governor and the General Assembly.
VACo Contact: Katie Boyle