Health Commissioner Vasan’s unintentional mental health error in the city

Mayor Adams and Health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan are facing criticism for their actions towards small mental-health community centers, as reported by The New York Post.

Their plan to invest up to $30 million to triple membership in adult day centers known as “clubhouses” has raised concerns, especially with Vasan’s intention to reduce the total number of centers. Some believe the intimate setting of these small centers is what makes them effective.

There is skepticism about investing additional mental-health funds into these centers, as they serve individuals with major depressive disorder and similar challenges rather than those who are severely mentally ill. Concerns also arise about the feasibility of larger centers accommodating the same needs as the smaller ones.

Moreover, the lack of city coverage for startup costs for new clubhouses could result in them being located in different neighborhoods, potentially displacing existing clients.

Vasan’s background as the former CEO of the city’s largest clubhouse provider raises questions about his perspective, especially given his past decisions related to mask mandates. The previous expansion during the de Blasio administration saw only a small increase in membership numbers, indicating caution in making significant changes to the service.

The rushed decision to triple the number of individuals served by these centers is seen as arrogant and potentially harmful. The plea is for the mayor and commissioner to prioritize the well-being of those utilizing these services and to adhere to the principles of medicine: first, do no harm.