WellSpan improves access to behavioral health services

Introducing Enhanced Care for Mental Health and Substance Use

29 May 2024

The need for behavioral health services continues to grow exponentially across the United States, with Pennsylvania and many other states experiencing a significant surge in demand. To address this ongoing crisis, WellSpan has made substantial investments to expand its behavioral health services, offering a continuum of care for children, adolescents, and adults across inpatient, outpatient, and community settings. This strategic move aims to provide comprehensive support for individuals experiencing mental health concerns and substance use disorders.

Enhanced Continuum of Care

WellSpan's behavioral health services now cover a wide range of care options, including inpatient treatment, outpatient therapy, and community-based programs. This comprehensive approach ensures that patients receive the necessary support at every stage of their journey, from initial diagnosis to ongoing recovery. The inclusion of community-based programs is particularly significant, as it allows patients to receive care in familiar settings, reducing the stigma often associated with mental health treatment.

Crisis Services: A New Approach

In recent years, the heightened awareness of mental health issues has led to a focus on crisis services. WellSpan has taken a proactive stance by implementing mobile crisis response teams that provide 24/7 on-site support to individuals experiencing a crisis. These teams are available in Adams, Lebanon, and York counties, offering immediate assistance to those in need. Additionally, WellSpan has partnered with community organizations to establish a crisis walk-in center in Lebanon, which is conveniently located across from WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital. This center provides improved access to patients experiencing a crisis, ensuring that they receive the necessary support without delay.

Behavioral Health Bridge Services for Youth

WellSpan has also introduced behavioral health bridge services for youth in York and Adams counties. These services aim to facilitate a more positive trajectory for young people by providing early intervention and support. By addressing mental health issues at an early stage, WellSpan hopes to prevent the escalation of these issues into more severe conditions, thereby improving the overall well-being of young individuals.

Emergency Department Support

In emergency departments, WellSpan has added behavioral health units to enhance care for individuals in crisis. These units enable the delivery of timely and effective care, ensuring that patients receive the necessary support without being delayed by extended hospital stays. Dr. Ken Rogers, vice president and chief medical officer of WellSpan Behavioral Health, emphasizes that the majority of individuals who come in contact with WellSpan during a mental health or substance use crisis do not require hospital emergency department care. Instead, they can receive better and faster care in community settings, which aligns with WellSpan's commitment to providing accessible and efficient care.

Telemedicine: Enhancing Accessibility

WellSpan has significantly increased its use of telemedicine, with approximately 60% of patient visits now conducted virtually. This shift has significantly improved access to care, as patients are more willing to engage in virtual appointments due to the added convenience and positive experience. The use of telemedicine has also enabled WellSpan to provide collaborative care in primary care practices through a partnership with Concert Health, a leading virtual behavioral health provider. This initiative aims to identify and improve behavioral health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, within medical settings.

Comprehensive Substance Use Services

WellSpan is also addressing the critical need for substance use services across its system of care. The START Clinic in York offers an integrated care experience for patients with urgent mental health and addiction needs. This one-stop clinic provides resources and services in a supportive environment, reducing the need for emergency department visits.

Conclusion

WellSpan's commitment to improving access to behavioral health services is a significant step forward in addressing the growing demand for mental health and substance use care. By offering a continuum of care through inpatient, outpatient, and community settings, WellSpan is ensuring that individuals receive the necessary support at every stage of their journey. The inclusion of crisis services, telemedicine, and comprehensive substance use services underscores WellSpan's dedication to providing accessible, efficient, and compassionate care.

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