Options Behavioral Health Hospital is run by the massive Acadia Healthcare, which promises to provide “compassionate care that improves lives.”

But several former patients and employees described a different reality inside the company’s Lawrence facility. They said the company placed profits over patient care.

The resulting allegations were troubling: Patients held against their will. No therapy. Widespread sex abuse. Employees struggling to contain the chaos.

In our investigative series “Out of Options,” hear directly from those who were harmed or who witnessed it — and learn why so many people are speaking up.

Mirror Indy reporter Mary Claire Molloy covers health. If you have something to share about this investigation, reach her at 317-721-7648 or email maryclaire.molloy@mirrorindy.org.

The latest

How to report abuse at a health care facility

Mary Claire Molloy

Mary Claire Molloy

Health Reporter

Here is a list of resources for people who want to file complaints about a health care facility or report their experiences.

This list was last updated on Dec. 13, 2024. If we missed a resource, please email maryclaire.molloy@mirrorindy.org.

911

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

Police

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department has phone numbers for each division, including sex crimes and child abuse. You can also reach a Victims Assistance Unit for support by calling 317-327-3331.

The Lawrence Police Department can also be reached through a nonemergency line at 317-545-7575.

Child Protective Services

Call the Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 800-800-5556. Reports can be made anonymously.

Adult Protective Services

For people 18 or older who are experiencing neglect, abuse or exploitation, call the state hotline at 800-992-6978. You can also file a report online.

Indiana Attorney General’s Office

There are several types of complaints you can file with the Indiana Attorney General’s Office. Use this form to report patient abuse or neglect and this form to report Medicaid fraud. You can also file a consumer complaint about a specific person or business, including mental health facilities. If a complaint moves forward, the state licensing board can take disciplinary action against a particular license.

Indiana Disability Rights

IDR is a state agency that investigates reports of abuse, neglect or exploitation. You can reach an advocate by calling 800-622-4845 or filling out an online form.

Indiana Department of Health

File a complaint about a health care facility with the Indiana Department of Health by calling 1-800-246-8909 during business hours or using an online form. Health care facility staff can also report incidents involving residents.

The Joint Commission

The Joint Commission is a nonprofit that accredits health care organizations. You can report a safety concern or complaint through an online form.

Although the allegations of abuse we uncovered at Options and other Acadia facilities are serious, they shouldn’t keep you from seeking help if you need it. There are several mental health resources available in Indianapolis.

If you need help, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673; the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453; or look to Mirror Indy’s guide to crisis hotlines.

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