TNSMHA proposes new norms for mental health establishments, accommodations, staffing, and digital registers
The Tamil Nadu State Mental Health Authority (TNSMHA) has released the draft “Tamil Nadu State Mental Healthcare Regulations, 2026,” framed under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, inviting public suggestions and objections until April 30, 2026.
Stakeholders and citizens can submit their feedback via email or post to the Authority’s office in Chennai.
Clear Definitions for ‘Sheltered’ and ‘Supported’ Accommodation
The draft introduces clear definitions for key care models. “Sheltered accommodation” refers to a secure living option for persons with mental illness who can manage independently but may need occasional support. Meanwhile, “supported accommodation” is designed for individuals living in their own or rented homes who receive domiciliary care and assistance from professional caregivers.
These provisions aim to promote independent living while ensuring safety and access to care.
Governance Structure and CEO Appointment Norms Defined
The draft outlines operational guidelines for TNSMHA meetings, including notice periods, quorum requirements, and provisions for tele-video conferencing participation. Decisions will be taken either unanimously or by majority vote.
It also specifies that the Chief Executive Officer must hold a postgraduate qualification in psychiatry, be appointed for a three-year term through a selection committee, and may be reappointed under the supervision of the Authority’s Chairperson.
Strict Standards for Mental Health Establishments (MHEs)
Under the proposed regulations, Mental Health Establishments (MHEs) must adhere to defined infrastructure, staffing, and service standards. These include the presence of qualified psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, psychiatric social workers, nurses, and medical professionals.
Facilities must maintain detailed medical and admission records for audits and regulatory review. Applications for permanent registration require a fee of ₹20,000 along with documentation and photographic evidence of compliance.
Objections to registration can be filed within 30 days of public notice, after which final approval will be granted by the State Authority upon satisfactory verification.
Digital Register of Mental Health Professionals
The Authority will maintain a digital, regularly updated register of mental health professionals. Practitioners must register by submitting Form-VI with a fee of ₹500.
Additionally, a district-wise list of professionals will be published annually on January 1 and made available on the Authority’s official website.
Minimum Standards Across Categories of Facilities
The draft categorizes MHEs into standalone facilities, psychiatric departments, wards in multispecialty hospitals, de-addiction centres, and psychosocial rehabilitation centres.
Minimum standards include proper infrastructure, hygiene, nutrition, patient rights protection, fire safety, CCTV monitoring, and grievance redressal systems. Specific categories require adequate staffing, equipment, and biomedical waste management certification.
For sheltered and supported accommodations, weekly visits by social workers and attendants are mandatory, along with compliance with rental agreements.
Admission Rules and Staffing Norms Detailed
The regulations mandate psychiatric evaluation for patients admitted to certain facility categories to rule out severe conditions. Patients requiring higher levels of care must be transferred to appropriate facilities.
Detailed staffing ratios have been prescribed for psychiatrists, medical officers, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and support staff. The draft also allows for substitute arrangements in cases where qualified professionals are unavailable.
Focus on Transparency, Quality, and Patient Rights
Overall, the draft regulations aim to strengthen mental healthcare delivery in Tamil Nadu by ensuring transparency, standardization, and patient-centric care, while encouraging public participation in shaping the final policy framework.
