$4 Million Grant to Bring Specialized Mental Health Crisis Unit to Jefferson Hospital
A $4 million state grant will fund the establishment of a specialized mental health crisis unit at Jefferson Hospital in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, significantly expanding access to critical care for individuals experiencing mental health emergencies.
The grant, presented yesterday, October 3, by the Camden County Board of Commissioners and representatives from the 6th Legislative District, will support the implementation of the EmPATH model of care and the construction of a 4,000-square-foot facility adjacent to the hospital’s Emergency Department. EmPATH – which stands for Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment and Healing – offers specialized care for patients in mental or behavioral health crises, diverting them from traditional emergency room settings. This model allows mental health specialists to evaluate patients and coordinate with a network of related services, including addiction treatment.
According to county officials, Jefferson Hospital is now the first healthcare system in southern New Jersey to adopt the innovative EmPATH care model. The increasing demand for mental health services, coupled with emergency room overcrowding, has highlighted the need for dedicated crisis facilities like this one. For more information on mental health resources, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website.
The new unit will provide a dedicated space for assessment and stabilization, improving patient outcomes and reducing wait times. You can learn more about Jefferson Hospital’s services here. Officials stated the funding will allow Jefferson Hospital to provide a higher level of care to those in need.
