Lexington Welcomes Kentucky’s First Emergency Psychiatric Unit

Lexington has become a shining beacon of hope in Kentucky with the opening of its very first Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment and Healing (EmPATH) Unit. In a fantastic celebration on July 30, state officials, community leaders, and folks from UK HealthCare came together to mark this groundbreaking development in mental health care that promises to change lives for the better.

Located on the campus of Eastern State Hospital, this innovative unit offers a much-needed safe space for those experiencing a mental health crisis, allowing them to receive immediate help without the long wait times often faced in regular emergency rooms. “The EmPATH model is a game-changer for mental-health care, and we are so proud to be the first in the state to open this unit,” expressed Robert S. DiPaola, co-executive vice president for health affairs at the University of Kentucky.

It’s a well-known fact that seeking help for mental health issues can be tough and even intimidating. The creators of the EmPATH unit have thoughtfully crafted an environment that feels welcoming and warm. Unlike typical emergency treatment rooms that can feel cold and clinical, this new space is designed with wide open areas and comfortable seating, promoting an atmosphere conducive to healing.

When someone arrives at the EmPATH unit, they are greeted by a caring team of health care providers, which includes psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and peer support specialists. This team is dedicated to assessing the individual’s needs and developing a tailored care plan. The best part? Patients can stay for up to 23 hours, ensuring they receive the appropriate attention they deserve in a timely manner.

People often wonder about the role of peer support, and according to Lindsey Jasinski, Chief Administrative Officer at Eastern State, it plays a crucial part in the unit’s success. Patients will have the opportunity to talk to others who’ve faced similar challenges, listen to their experiences, and learn how they’ve managed their paths through recovery. “It provides hope, and that’s what the EmPATH model is all about,” Jasinski remarked.

The unit spans roughly 11,000 square feet and accommodates up to 12 patients, allowing for personalized care. Research shows that about 60 to 70% of those treated at an EmPATH unit find stabilization and are able to go back home within 24 hours. This unit is not just about quick fixes; it’s about ensuring that patients are more likely to follow through with ongoing care after their visit.

Recent studies reveal a concerning uptick in mental health-related visits to emergency rooms, highlighting the pressing need for specialized care. From 2007 to 2016, the percentage of emergency room visits related to mental health jumped from 6.6% to 10.9%. The EmPATH unit aims to alleviate this burden by offering a more appropriate setting for patients experiencing crises, which can range from anxiety and depression to substance use disorders.

Dr. Andrew Cooley, a psychiatrist at UK HealthCare, emphasized the importance of this new approach. “Emergency departments give amazing care and save countless lives every day, but patients who come in with a life-threatening injury will need to take priority,” he explained. The EmPATH unit serves as an alternative, ensuring that individuals seeking mental health care are immediately assessed and assisted.

Accessible to adults aged 18 and older, the EmPATH unit defines crises broadly to include any mental health problem affecting their daily functioning. This welcoming approach means individuals can either be brought in by emergency services or can come in on their own. “The patient defines the crisis. We’re very open-door,” said Marc Woods, Eastern State’s chief nursing officer, indicating that the care they offer goes beyond just mental health support; they are there to address the patient’s basic needs as well.

Located on Bull Lea Road in Lexington, the EmPATH unit has its very own entrance, ensuring privacy and ease of access. As part of the larger network of UK HealthCare, which operates 195 acute-care beds, this unit aims to provide critical, recovery-focused psychiatric care to individuals from a wide 50-county area.

The opening of this emergency psychiatric unit marks a transformative step for mental health care in Kentucky. With continued efforts and collaboration among various health care providers, including New Vista, which services 17 counties, the EmPATH unit inspires hope and healing for those in need. The fight for better mental health resources is far from over, but with initiatives like this, Kentucky is well on its way to providing the support and care that so many desperately need.