Milwaukee County Mental Health Board Issues Statement on Chapter 971 Audit Findings

MILWAUKEE- The Milwaukee County Mental Health Board convened October 23, 2025, and examined a report from its Quality Committee. The Board voted unanimously to accept the audit findings and endorses the following statement of support:

“The Milwaukee County Mental Health Board has reviewed the Audit Findings of BHS Responsibilities under Wis. Stats. 971.14(6)(c) which involves individuals found not competent to stand trial and not likely to regain competency. We commend Behavioral Health Services leadership for 1) pursuing a thorough review of recent records and practices concerning such cases; 2) conducting a root-cause analysis of existing systems, and 3) readily implementing corrective actions.

The audit report highlights that Chapter 971 conversion cases are rare but require heightened legal and clinical oversight to ensure accurate documentation and timely notification to appropriate parties. The audit report identified the need to update the electronic health record system to proactively flag such cases and to amend provider reporting requirements to ensure that BHS is able meet the 14-day notice requirement. A newly created policy for staff and contracted providers is in place to ensure accountability.

We support the audit findings including:

•New specific policies and procedures pertaining to Chapter 971 conversion cases

•Improved data tracking and reporting via electronic health records

•Early notification from providers when extensions may not be pursued

•Compliance with statutory requirements to ensure public safety and individual rights

The Mental Health Board recognizes that the number and complexity of civil commitments have increased since the time of the pandemic and calls for an examination of state statutes in connection with current best practices. It is important to note that many factors contributed to a system communication breakdown as described in the audit report. It is vital for review and improvements to be ongoing.

The Mental Health Board appreciates the work of BHS leadership and staff in this audit process and expects regular reporting to demonstrate that improvements are fully implemented and sustained. We remain confident in the work of BHS as it moves forward with its efforts to provide the right care, at the right time, and in the right setting for Milwaukee County citizens.”

“The audit findings, while concerning, provided a necessary opportunity for reflection and immediate course correction,” said Mary Neubauer, Chairwoman of the Milwaukee County Mental Health Board. “We are encouraged by BHS’s transparent response and swift implementation of corrective actions. As a Board, we are committed to ensuring that all individuals, especially those most vulnerable, are treated with dignity, their rights protected, and public safety upheld through rigorous oversight and system accountability.”

“As Chair of the Mental Health Quality Committee, I want to acknowledge the comprehensive audit led by Administrator Mike Lappen and the Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Services team,” said Dennise Lavernz. “The Committee commends the thorough review, affirms confidence in recent system improvements, and supports the recommended actions for continued progress. We remain committed to partnering with Behavioral Health Services to ensure the highest quality of care for our community and thank Administrator Lappen and his team for their leadership and dedication.”

The Milwaukee County Mental Health Board is an appointed group of county citizens responsible for governing policies and making budget decisions for the Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Behavioral Health Services. For more information about the MHB, visit https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/DHHS/About/Governance#mcmhb

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.