EMPATH at Eastern State Hospital revolutionizes mental health crisis care in Lexington

In a recent meeting of the Lexington Social Services and Public Safety Committee, officials from Eastern State Hospital and UK Health Care presented an update on their innovative mental health program, EMPATH (Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment, and Healing). This facility, which opened nearly a year ago, serves as a dedicated emergency room for individuals experiencing psychiatric crises, marking a significant shift in how mental health emergencies are handled in the community.

Dr. Mark Woods, Chief Nursing Officer at UK HealthCare, emphasized the program's commitment to compassionate care, stating that patients define their own crises without facing barriers that often exist in traditional emergency departments. Unlike conventional settings where patients may feel judged or stigmatized, EMPATH offers a welcoming environment where individuals can receive immediate care without prior medical clearance. This approach has proven effective, with 60 to 65 percent of patients coming in for suicidal ideation—an alarming statistic given that suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people in Kentucky.

Since its inception, EMPATH has seen over 4,000 patients, with a notable 75 to 80 percent of them avoiding hospitalization. This success is attributed to the facility's ability to stabilize patients and connect them with follow-up care, significantly improving the rate of post-discharge appointments from 29 percent to 65 percent. The program's low-barrier access and emphasis on immediate treatment have filled a critical gap in the community, allowing individuals who previously avoided seeking help to access necessary services.

The committee members expressed their support for the program, highlighting its potential as a model for similar facilities across the state and beyond. The discussions also touched on the importance of addressing stigma surrounding mental health, with officials noting that creating a comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere is crucial for encouraging individuals to seek help.

Looking ahead, the EMPATH team plans to expand its capacity and continue developing partnerships with local organizations to enhance service delivery. The program's success has garnered national attention, with EMPATH recently winning the National Empath of the Year award, further solidifying its role as a leader in mental health care innovation.

As the community grapples with rising mental health needs, the EMPATH program stands out as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that compassionate, accessible care can make a significant difference in the lives of those in crisis. The committee's ongoing support and the program's expansion efforts will be vital in ensuring that this model continues to thrive and serve the community effectively.