Loma Linda (Calif.) University Health held a Sept. 15 ribbon-cutting for its Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment, and Healing (EmPATH) Unit.
Located in the Hinshaw Towers, the unit has 24 treatment spaces divided evenly between pediatric and adult patients. The space allows patients experiencing a mental health crisis to transition out of the emergency department for assessment and determination of the appropriate level of care, according to a Sept. 16 news release from the system.
The project follows $6 million in grants awarded to LLU Behavioral Health in 2023 by California’s Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission to support emergency services in hospital emergency departments. Loma Linda University Medical Center was one of four adult institutions awarded contracts. The Children’s Hospital was the only pediatric center selected.
The EmPATH unit is expected to be fully operational in 2027.
At the Becker's Fall Behavioral Health Summit, taking place November 4–5 in Chicago, behavioral health leaders and executives will explore strategies for expanding access to care, integrating services, addressing workforce challenges and leveraging innovation to improve outcomes across the behavioral health continuum. Apply for complimentary registration now.
