EmPATH: Transforming Urgent Mental Health Care in Kentucky

Located in Lexington, Kentucky, UK HealthCare’s Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment, and Healing (EmPATH) unit has become a pivotal part of mental health care since opening its doors on July 30, 2024. This innovative care model aims to provide rapid access to mental health services, effectively decompressing emergency departments and inpatient units. Let’s dive deeper into how EmPATH is revolutionizing mental health care in Kentucky.

The Mission and Impact of EmPATH

EmPATH is designed to provide quick, effective mental health care outside the traditional emergency room setting. According to Lindsey Jasinski, Ph.D., Chief Administrative Officer at Eastern State Hospital, the impact on the community has been noteworthy. Patients in crisis receive timely interventions, resulting in reduced readmission rates and less strain on hospital resources. More importantly, it offers a beacon of hope for individuals who might otherwise struggle to access mental health care.

Key Achievements in the First Six Months

• Patient Throughput: EmPATH has served over 1,800 people, with 10-12 people receiving care at any given time.
• Short Stays: The average length of stay at EmPATH is approximately 15 hours.
• Diverse Reach: Patients from 66 Kentucky counties and 21 states have utilized EmPATH services.
• Reduced Hospitalization: Only about 25% of EmPATH visitors require hospitalization, and fewer than 5% are admitted to Eastern State Hospital.
• High Follow-Up Rates: Post-discharge, New Vista schedules follow-up appointments promptly, with a high compliance rate of 61%.

The Structure and Functionality of EmPATH

EmPATH is strategically located in the previously vacant Allen 1 unit on the Eastern State Hospital campus, marking a significant advancement in behavioral health services. It features a therapeutic environment conducive to handling mental health crises, with a capacity to accommodate 12-16 patients at a time, and operates 24/7. At EmPATH, the emphasis is on a welcoming, supportive approach: “Come on in. We’ll figure it out together,” resonates as a guiding philosophy.

Innovative Approach to Mental Health Crises

• California-Origin Model: The EmPATH model originated in California and is regarded as a national best practice by The Joint Commission.
• Cost-Effective Care: By reducing hospitalizations by 60%, EmPATH showcases a cost-effective model for managing mental health emergencies.
• Community Collaboration: Patients are often brought to EmPATH by family, friends, or through collaboration with law enforcement/EMS.

Advanced Resources at UK HealthCare

UK HealthCare, more than just a network of hospitals and clinics, serves as a hub of advanced medical care and education in the Commonwealth. It is home to Kentucky’s only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and the region’s only Level 1 trauma center. The institution boasts over 10,000 dedicated healthcare professionals and emphasizes the academic development of future health leaders through its six health professions colleges.

Commitment to a Healthier Kentucky

• Continuous Innovation: As an academic research institution, UK HealthCare is committed to pioneering new treatments and health protocols.
• Educating Future Leaders: The healthcare system educates the next generation of doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, setting high standards for care.
• Community Engagement: Through advanced subspecialty care and resource allocation, UK HealthCare addresses the critical needs of the community.

Conclusion

The establishment of EmPATH marks a significant milestone in addressing mental health crises within Kentucky. It offers a revolutionary model that not only alleviates the pressure on emergency departments but also ensures high-quality, accessible care for individuals most in need. EmPATH embodies UK HealthCare’s ongoing commitment to transformative health solutions in service of a healthier Kentucky and, ultimately, a healthier future.

For more information about UK HealthCare and EmPATH, you can contact Allison Perry at allison.perry@uky.edu or call (859) 323-2399.

Source: https://uknow.uky.edu/uk-healthcare/empath-filling-need-urgent-mental-health-care-ky