Connecticut Children’s opens new 20-bed psychiatric unit
Last week, New England Council member, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center opened its new psychiatric facility at 282 Washington St. in Hartford, CT. The unit has been called a “milestone for pediatric mental health care”, as it is specifically for treating children with both physical and mental health challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted pediatric mental health, leading to the United States Surgeon General’s declaration of a mental health crisis in 2022. Concurrently, there is a dramatic increase in the demand for emergency mental health services among school-age children.
Though the addition was originally slated to be a 12-bed space, an investment of around $1 million allowed the hospital to expand the unit to 20 beds. The unit was funded by the state, local corporations, and individual donors.
“Mental health needs continue for a period of time, just not necessarily requiring inpatient care, but also outpatient continued therapy. We need more providers and support for the post-hospital care,” said the president of Connecticut Children’s, Jim Shmerling, “But when you see this unit, you can see what can be done working together in a collaborative fashion.”
The New England Council would like to congratulate Connecticut Children’s Medical Center on the opening of this facility.
Read more from Connecticut Public Radio.