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New Emergency Psychiatric Unit Opens at HCGH

(The Business Monthly) -- In opening the new Psychiatric Emergency Unit at Howard County General Hospital (HCGH), the community facility can accommodate the growing mental health needs of the local market.

During the past two years, the hospital has experienced a dramatic increase in emergency psychiatric evaluations. Until the opening of the new unit on Wednesday, Feb. 7, psychiatric patients were being treated in the main Emergency Department.

The new facility is a separate, secure unit that is specially designed and staffed to treat up to 10 patients in need of mental health services. The new unit enhances access, safety and quality of patient care.

"The privacy and security provided by the new unit is a welcome change for patients and staff," said Dr. Joseph Schwartz, medical director of the Howard County General Hospital Psychiatric Department. "The calming environment of the new unit supports treating patients during what is usually a difficult time for them."

The hospital also provides inpatient psychiatric services in a 20-bed psychiatric unit, which is located in a newly constructed 1,920-square-foot addition to the hospital's main Emergency Department. The $775,000 project was funded in part by a grant from the Maryland Hospital Association Hospital Bond Project Review Program, a grant from The Horizon Foundation, and the hospital's working capital.

"We are pleased to have the support of the entire Howard County community for this important project," said Vic Broccolino, president and CEO of HCGH. "In working together on this and similar projects, we can ensure our patients receive the best possible care."