Great Lakes Wire

David Metzner, an analyst for ACG Analytics, has highlighted a significant psychiatric bed shortage in the United States. He said that the country has only 10.8 beds per 100,000 people, which is considerably below the recommended 50. 

Metzner's comments follow a report by Great Lakes Wire indicating that Michigan ranks 46th nationally, with just five beds per 100,000 residents.

"We need the appropriate number of beds, but if we have a mental health system that's working, my view would be that not many people ever have to go to those beds," said Metzner, Managing Partner of ACG, said on a webinar earlier this month. "States save more money on other healthcare costs when mental health issues are properly addressed."

Metzner said this ongoing shortage has increased the burden on emergency departments and law enforcement agencies, effectively positioning them as the primary providers of mental health care. To address this crisis, experts emphasize the need to expand inpatient capacity, enhance community mental health services, and employ telemedicine for timely interventions.

According to BridgeMI, Michigan has closed over 70 inpatient psychiatric beds since April 2022. This reduction was not due to budget cuts but rather a critical shortage of staff willing to work in state-run facilities. The closures represent about 10% of the state's capacity and have placed additional pressure on emergency rooms, private hospitals, and community mental health services to manage severe cases. Despite increased funding efforts, workforce shortages and burnout continue to challenge Michigan's ability to deliver safe and long-term psychiatric care.

Great Lakes Wire reported that Michigan currently has 3,195 inpatient psychiatric beds across state and community hospitals. Between 2018 and 2020, the state's psychiatric bed-to-population ratio was recorded at 33.0 per 100,000 residents. This figure remains below the nationally recommended minimum and underscores the urgent need for expanded inpatient psychiatric capacity.

According to Meridian, Metzner serves as Managing Partner of American Continental Group and has led ACG Analytics since 2007. He advises financial industry clients on how public policy impacts investment decisions and previously held the position of Vice Chairman at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.