Methodist Behavioral Health Opens New Emergency Treatment Area

Peoria, Illinois (May 1, 2009)—Patients requiring behavioral health services through the Methodist Emergency Department will now be seen in a newly opened treatment facility.

Located just off from the main Emergency Department, the new behavioral health treatment area is designed to provide a non-threatening, soothing environment for individuals seeking assessment or treatment for behavioral health emergencies.

Dean Steiner, Director of Behavioral Health Services for Methodist Medical Center, said the area is staffed 24 hours a day seven days a week with master’s level clinicians and/or behavioral health nurses. The newly opened treatment area is a response to increased demand for behavioral health services and provides safety and confidentiality for behavioral health patients. Prior to the opening of the new facility, Emergency Department patients needing behavioral health care received treatment in designated rooms within the Emergency Department.

The new area includes 5 new treatment rooms, each equipped with a bed or a recliner. Patients are placed in the rooms according to their needs.

Methodist became the only local provider of inpatient behavioral health services after the closing in 2002 of the State of Illinois’ Zeller Center.