On July 30, UK HealthCare introduced a new emergency unit focused on treating patients in mental health crises. Named EmPATH (Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment, and Healing), this unit is the first of its kind in Kentucky.
The EmPATH model, developed by renowned emergency psychiatry expert Dr. Scott Zeller, offers an alternative to traditional emergency rooms. In a standard ER, patients with behavioral health issues often endure long waits in a stressful environment before receiving care. EmPATH units address this by providing immediate support in a soothing, purpose-built setting. There are currently about 30 EmPATH units across the U.S.
UK HealthCare partnered with New Vista and Kentucky’s Cabinet for Health and Family Services to bring this innovative approach to the state. In a recent episode of the “Behind the Blue” podcast, Lindsey Jasinski, Chief Administrative Officer of Eastern State Hospital, and Marc Woods, Chief Nursing Officer, discussed the effectiveness of the EmPATH model, the evolution of psychiatric care, and Eastern State Hospital’s two-century legacy in mental health treatment.
“Behind the Blue” can be found on iTunes, Google Play, and Spotify, where subscribers can receive weekly updates. The podcast features UK’s medical breakthroughs, research, and the latest university news.
Listeners with questions or comments can reach out via email at [email protected] or tweet using #BehindTheBlue. Transcripts of episodes are available on the podcast’s blog page.
UK HealthCare, part of the University of Kentucky, is more than just a network of hospitals and clinics. It comprises over 10,000 health care professionals dedicated to providing advanced care for critically ill patients. The institution also houses Kentucky’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, a Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the region’s only Level 1 trauma center, and Kentucky’s top-ranked hospital, as recognized by U.S. News & World Report.
As an academic research institution, UK HealthCare is at the forefront of developing new cures, treatments, and protocols. The institution’s health professions colleges are training the next generation of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals, who will continue to uphold the highest standards of care. UK HealthCare remains committed to improving the health of Kentucky’s residents, now and in the future.
