Emplify Health by Gundersen, a leader in behavioral healthcare in Wisconsin, announced the opening of the state’s first dedicated emergency mental health facility. The Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment and Healing, or EmPATH, unit opened in April and is now serving patients at Emplify Health by Gundersen’s La Crosse campus. This innovative facility addresses a critical need by providing a specialized space for individuals experiencing mental health emergencies.
Patients in a mental health crisis will continue to present to the Emergency Room, but instead of waiting with other patients, they are transferred to the new EmPATH unit. There, they can remain for up to 23 hours to receive comprehensive care. The unit spans 5,000 square feet and features eight dedicated exam rooms equipped with appropriate technology and resources, designed to create a calming atmosphere that promotes safety and comfort for patients, family, and staff.
Upon arrival, patients meet with a psychiatric provider within the first hour to review diagnoses, treatment plans, and medication. They then work with behavioral health professionals to address the immediate crisis. After stabilization, the treatment team determines the best follow-up, which may include transfer to inpatient behavioral health or discharge with outpatient program support.
The EmPATH model is a crucial component of Emplify Health’s broader strategy to improve access to mental health services. By providing a dedicated space and streamlined process for emergency psychiatric care, the unit reduces wait times and delivers better care in a patient-centered environment. It also serves as a resource for families and caregivers, offering guidance and support during challenging times.
Josh Court, director of Emplify Health by Gundersen Behavioral Health, emphasized the importance of the new unit: “The space is a vital tool for our staff, allowing them to provide immediate and effective care for patients in mental health crises. This space is designed to immediately bring healing to patients, as well as facilitate quick assessments and interventions, ensuring individuals receive the support they need as soon as they arrive. Our goal is to create a safe haven where patients can feel secure and begin their journey toward recovery.”
This opening marks a significant advancement in mental health care in Wisconsin. For more information about Emplify Health and its services, visit emplifyhealth.org.
