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Construction set to begin for new UPMC behavioral health unit for Lawrence, Mercer Counties

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Construction is set to begin on a new behavioral health inpatient unit from UPMC in Lawrence and Mercer Counties.

According to a press release, construction is set to begin in June of 2025.

The new Adult Behavioral Health Inpatient Unit will offer 11 beds for patients to address the growing need for accessible mental health services in local communities. This was recognized as a top community need in the Community Health Needs Assessment and Community Health Strategic Plan.

"We are fortunate to work with our colleagues at Western Behavioral Health on our initiatives to meet these important needs and to keep care close to home," said Dave Patton, president, UPMC Jameson and UPMC Horizon.

UPMC Jameson has been awarded $7.5 million in a grant by the Southwest Behavioral Health Management, Inc. to develop the new unit scheduled to open in 2026. According to the release, this is one of UPMC's largest grants to date.

UPMC has agreed to contribute about $2 million to the project.

UPMC announced the opening of a new intensive outpatient program that will be available to those experiencing psychological symptoms that might benefit from support beyond traditional outpatient therapy.

IOPs can also help with reintegrating patients back into their communities after inpatient behavioral health care.

The IOP and Partial Hospitalization Program both reside at 253 E. Washington St. in New Castle, where they provide group therapy, individual therapy and medication management. A referral from another provider is not required to receive care.

Behavioral Health Consult and Liaison Services is another form of specialized care that is available in Mercer and Lawrence Counties.

These services concern a team of UPMC Western Behavioral Health professionals who work to address the mental health needs of the current hospital patients through expert consultation, coordination, treatment planning, crisis intervention, education and family support.

Telemedicine is another option for behavioral health care that has emerged in the collection of services offered by UPMC. Telemedicine offers expert care that is convenient, secure and accessible from patients' homes.


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