SF Chronicle investigates for-profit psychiatric hospitals' care quality

San Francisco — The San Francisco Chronicle is investigating California's for-profit psychiatric hospitals after the tragic death of a 15-year-old girl. Jázmin Pelligirini was found dead in a San Francisco driveway in April 2024. Her death was caused by a mix of drugs, including fentanyl and cocaine. Jázmin immigrated from Hungary a few years ago. After moving, she faced mental health issues that led her to several psychiatric hospitals across the state. Her story highlights significant concerns about the care provided in California’s 21 for-profit psychiatric facilities. Reporters Cynthia Dizikes and Joaquin Palomino conducted interviews with more than 100 people. Their investigation uncovered troubling practices in these hospitals, including over 100 citations for assaults on patients and numerous cases of improper restraints. There were also 17 deaths that may have been preventable. Palomino emphasized that this is a critical time to assess the quality of care in these expanding facilities. The investigation's findings raise serious questions about the treatment provided to vulnerable individuals seeking help. Further parts of the investigation are available on the Chronicle’s website.