Psychiatry Continues to Fail and Harm Patients at Maryland State Psychiatric Hospital

June 12, 2026

A new report has raised serious concerns about conditions at Maryland's Clifton T. Perkins Hospital Center in Jessup, alleging that patients have been denied basic rights and essential services. According to investigators, some patients struggled to obtain necessities such as clean drinking water, while others experienced excessive restraints and seclusion.

The findings describe ongoing problems involving patient safety, dignity, and treatment practices at the state-run psychiatric facility. Advocates say rights violations have persisted for years and, in some cases, may have contributed to tragic outcomes for people in the hospital's care.

The report adds to mounting scrutiny surrounding Perkins, which has already faced allegations of understaffing, violence, and management failures. Calls are growing for stronger oversight and reforms to ensure that vulnerable patients receive humane treatment and that their legal rights are protected.

("Patients denied basic rights at Jessup psychiatric hospital, report says," MSN, June 5, 2026.)