MENTAL health officials offer hot line

TULSA, Okla. (AP) _ Indigent patients with questions about the shuffling of mental health services in Tulsa can now call a toll-free telephone number for help. <br><br>The line _ 1-866-699-6605 _ will

Thursday, August 23rd 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

TULSA, Okla. (AP) _ Indigent patients with questions about the shuffling of mental health services in Tulsa can now call a toll-free telephone number for help.

The line _ 1-866-699-6605 _ will be staffed 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays by Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services personnel.

It's intended to provide one-on-one help for patients with questions following the end of Parkside Hospital's contract with the state, said commissioner Terry Cline.

``We have participated in many group meetings with area mental health clients and their families, social service agencies, city and county officials and others in order to discuss the changes,'' he said. ``We realize, though, that not every question can be answered in these settings.''

The agency has negotiated contracts with Associated Centers for Therapy, Grand Lake Mental Health Center and F&CS Mental Health Care to provide services.

It also has established a temporary crisis intervention program at Tulsa's Day Center for the Homeless and an inpatient unit at the former Doctor's Hospital.