HAMPTON ROADS — Riverside Health System has announced that the first standalone psychiatric emergency department in Hampton Roads will open in late 2023.
The psychiatric emergency department (ED) at Riverside Behavioral Health Center, located at 2244 Executive Dr. in Hampton, will operate as a 24 hours a day, seven days a week as a support option for community members who may be experiencing a psychiatric crisis.
Patients will be assisted by mental health specialists trained in the best techniques for empathetically assisting patients with non-physical care needs.
“When facing a mental health crisis, many people are unsure of where to go, which often leads them to law enforcement or a traditional ER [emergency room] setting. While both provide the best support they can, we recognize our community needs more personalized, compassionate mental health care,” Stacey Johnson, executive director of Riverside Behavioral Health Center, said. “With 24/7 access to a psychiatric-specific emergency department, the community will have greater access to fully integrated, whole-person care during their time of greatest need. We are proud to be another healing hand for our community to grow stronger.”
Patients in the psychiatric ED will first be met with a comprehensive assessment of their immediate care needs. They will be then work directly with a psychiatric healthcare provider and a Care Coordinator to determine additional needs for their health.
Those in need of assistance or more information on behavioral health services, contact the Riverside Behavioral Health Center team at (757) 827-3119.
