Bellevue Hospital reports 50% increase in psychiatric patient admissions post-Mount Sinai closure

The recent Human Services Committee meeting held by Manhattan Community Board 2 on June 26, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding mental health services in the wake of the closure of Mount Sinai Beth Israel. The discussions centered around the increased demand for psychiatric care and the capacity challenges faced by Bellevue Hospital, one of the oldest and largest psychiatric institutions in New York City.

Bellevue Hospital representatives reported a dramatic rise in patient admissions, with numbers soaring from approximately 400-450 patients pre-COVID to nearly 900 currently. This surge is attributed to a combination of factors, including the closure of Mount Sinai Beth Israel and a general increase in mental health crises. Bellevue currently operates over 900 beds, with around 200 dedicated to psychiatric care, and it handles nearly 50% of all psychiatric emergency services in the city.

The closure of Mount Sinai Beth Israel has intensified the pressure on Bellevue, which has had to adapt quickly to accommodate the influx of patients. Hospital officials noted that they have implemented operational improvements to streamline patient flow and maximize bed usage. However, they acknowledged that the increased patient load has led to higher acuity levels, meaning that many patients are arriving in more critical condition.

The meeting also addressed the challenges of emergency room capacity. Bellevue's emergency department has seen a rise in walk-in patients and those arriving by ambulance, leading to occasional diversions where ambulances are redirected to other facilities due to lack of space. Bellevue's commitment to providing care regardless of a patient's ability to pay underscores its role as a critical safety net for the community.

As the city grapples with these challenges, the need for additional resources and support for mental health services has become increasingly urgent. The discussions at the meeting emphasized the importance of collaboration among local hospitals to ensure that all patients receive the care they need, particularly in light of the ongoing mental health crisis exacerbated by the pandemic and recent institutional closures.

In conclusion, the Human Services Committee meeting served as a crucial platform for addressing the pressing issues surrounding mental health care in Manhattan. With Bellevue Hospital at the forefront of psychiatric services, the community must continue to advocate for necessary resources and support to meet the growing demand for mental health care in the city.