Recognizing the critical need for expanded mental health services in Michigan, U-M Health Sparrow has filed a certificate of need request with the state to increase behavioral health beds for both adults and youth. This initiative aims to address the mental health crisis affecting 1.7 million Michiganders, a situation exacerbated by the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Expanding Behavioral Health Services
U-M Health is seeking approval for 120 additional behavioral health beds to meet the rising demand for mental health services. These services will be housed in the historic Lansing Eastern High School building, a site with deep community ties. U-M Health is committed to preserving the building’s historical significance while repurposing it for crucial mental health care.
Pandemic Impact on Mental Health
Sara Lurie, CEO of Community Mental Health, highlighted the pandemic’s significant impact on mental health, noting an increase in anxiety and depression among people who previously had no serious behavioral health issues. “Many people during the pandemic started to experience higher levels of anxiety and depression and really came to understand how challenging that is and how important it is that we have a range of services available to anyone who needs them,” said Lurie.
Urgent Need for Additional Beds
Every day, nearly 140 adult patients and about 17 adolescents are stuck in Michigan emergency departments waiting for appropriate mental health services. Lurie emphasized the dire shortage of mental health beds in the community, leading to situations where patients are sent to facilities as far away as Grand Rapids or even Indiana for care.
Community and Government Support
Lansing Mayor Andy Schor expressed strong support for the expansion, highlighting the city’s ongoing efforts to address mental health issues through a mental health task force and partnerships with various organizations. “UM Medical’s increase in behavioral health bed capacity here in Lansing will address a tremendous need in our city, region, and state,” said Schor. “I greatly appreciate the growth and investments that UM Health Sparrow are making in our city, and their future plans for expanded behavioral health services and so many other things. Go Blue!”
Next Steps
U-M Health Sparrow plans to engage closely with school alumni and community members over the next few months to refine their proposal. The final plan will then be presented to the UM Board of Regents for approval. This collaborative approach aims to ensure the project meets the needs and preserves the values of the local community.
Conclusion
With 60% of behavioral health patients in emergency departments waiting for a bed, the addition of 120 new beds represents a significant step towards alleviating the mental health crisis in Michigan. U-M Health Sparrow’s initiative not only aims to provide immediate relief but also underscores a long-term commitment to improving mental health care accessibility and quality in the region.
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