Life often presents challenges that are difficult to overcome alone. Everyone needs help at times, and at Meadville Medical Center we believe no one should be without assistance just when they need it the most. Meadville Medical Center's Inpatient Mental Health Unit is a 28-bed facility providing psychiatric services for adolescents, adults and seniors ages 14 years and older. The unit provides a structured, safe, homelike environment for individuals requiring short-term hospitalization. Intensive treatment of acute emotional problems such as anxiety, depression, cognitive impairment, and thought disorders is provided.
The treatment team consists of psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and other mental health professionals. They work together to develop and implement a treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each individual. In a highly supportive environment, each patient participates in an individually tailored course of treatment. Individual counseling, group therapy, talk groups, occupational, and recreational therapy and family involvement are combined throughout the hospitalization.
The Whole Person
Our Mental Health Programs address the needs of the whole person—medically and psychologically. In a highly supportive environment, each patient participates in an individually tailored course of therapy. Individual counseling, group therapy, planned activities, and family involvement are combined throughout the treatment process. From the initial assessment to the day of discharge, our goal is always the same: to rehabilitate the whole person so they may return to a more satisfying and productive life.
The Whole Family
It is difficult for many families to accept that their loved ones need professional help. The mental health programs at MMC are set up to specifically encourage family involvement. Most patients have extended families who are very concerned about them and want to know what is happening. The team works closely with family members and teaches them about the illness, treatment processes, and community services which are available once the patient leaves the hospital.
Special Seniors, Special Care
In addition to our Adult Care Program, Meadville Medical Center offers another program which is exclusively Senior focused for adults ages 55+. The purpose is to provide more intensive, specialized mental health services to meet the unique needs of the area's expanding senior population. Aging can present many challenges that the older generation is often unable to resolve. These challenges may include decreasing physical and mental capabilities, the inability to live independently or the loss of lifetime companions. The older adult may react to these situations by displaying apathy, confusion or forgetfulness that may be misinterpreted as normal behaviors of aging. The truth is that although older adults may exhibit these behaviors, they are not always a normal part of aging. With special care directed at the unique emotional and health care concerns experienced by this population, independence can be maintained or improved to provide a more satisfying lifestyle.
Program Services
Special clinical programs have been designed to meet the needs of particular groups. These programs offer specialized services to address common issues. The treatment team consists of psychiatrists, nurses, social workers and other mental health professionals. They work together to develop and implement a treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each person. The following services are available:
- Diagnostic psychological testing
- Diagnostic medical testing
- Physical examination
- Medical consultation
- Group psychotherapy
- Medication therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Structured goal-directed activities
- Social services
- Health education
- Medication education
Admissions
Individuals who are experiencing serious emotional distress may refer themselves to the Emergency Department to determine if admission is appropriate. Family members, physicians, other professionals or agencies can also make referrals. Meadville Medical Center accepts all individuals regardless of race, age, sex or financial status. Most major insurance plans are accepted, and we will work with the family to establish reasonable financial arrangements.
The Warning Signs
Warning signals that may indicate a need for treatment include:
- Disorientation
- Depression
- Severe memory loss
- Hallucinations
- Increased social withdrawal
- Suicidal thoughts
- Sleep disturbances
- Appetite disturbances
- Extreme fluctuations in thought
- Loss of interest in appearance
- Risk of violence to self or others
About the Facility
Conference rooms are available for family meetings, referral agencies, etc. Patient rooms have been renovated and are cheerful and bright. They are equipped with safety devices appropriate to patients who are emotionally disturbed to help prevent self-inflicted injuries.
The Inpatient Mental Health Unit is approved by the State of Pennsylvania, Department of Health and is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.
Humberto Dorta, M.D., the Medical Director for the Inpatient Mental Health Unit, is board certified in Psychiatry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I access treatment for myself or someone close to me?
Referrals can be through your physician, self, family or agency. Contact our unit at (814) 333-5800 Monday through Friday for more information. Experienced staff will talk with you and direct you to the most appropriate way to obtain services.
What can I do in a crisis/emergency situation?
In Meadville and Crawford County the Help Line can be accessed by calling (814) 373-2345 anytime day or night. Trained professionals will assist you and direct you to necessary services. In an emergency situation the closest emergency room is recommended.
What are the visiting hours?
Visiting hours are daily from 6 pm to 7:30 pm. Children under the age of 12 years require a doctor's order to visit.
What is the usual length of stay on the unit?
The length of stay will be between 5 and 10 days, but it can vary based on patient need. From the initial assessment to the day of discharge, the goal is always the same-- to rehabilitate the whole person so they may return to a more satisfying and productive life.
Contacting IP Mental Health
If you or a loved one has concerns or needs help, call (814) 333-5800, or the 24-hour Help Line at (814) 373-2345. We would be happy to discuss with you how our services can help. The IP Mental Health Unit is located at the Grove Street facility.