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This retrospective study examines treatment outcomes associated with atypical antipsychotic medications in areas of 1) treatment response; 2) employment; 3) living arrangements; and 4) hospitalization rates. The study included a random sample of adults with serious mental illness, who participated in treatment for at least 36 months. Study results suggest that the utilization of these medications, despite higher costs, promote cost savings of public dollars through reduced hospitalization and enhanced functioning/outcomes. The study results proved to be very vital to the Virginia State Legislature and key system policy makers and funding authorities, as important actions were taken to enhance consumer access to these important medications and essential services.