Ribbon Cutting set for February 12 from 4:30 – 6 p.m.
In response to the needs of the community, Southern Regional has opened a new 16-bed Senior Behavioral Health Unit. A secured unit, this service provides compassionate and engaging care for our older adults who are experiencing mental health issues that require care beyond outpatient treatment.
“Our entire team of psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, mental health technicians, and recreational therapists are committed to guiding patients on their journey to well-being, and putting into place the support their families need,” stated I.H. Dhanani, MD, board-certified psychiatrist and Medical Director for the Unit.
Charlotte W. Dupré, President and CEO of Southern Regional Medical Center, added, “Southern Regional is focused on ensuring that our community’s growing senior population has access and appropriate care for all of their medical needs. This unit complements our existing Acute Care for the Elderly Unit in our Senior Care Service Line,”
While on the unit, patients stay in private rooms, dress in their own clothes, and are supported with a complement of therapeutic programs and services providing the stabilization and engagement they need to heal. Conditions that are treated on this unit include: anxiety; cognitive changes; depression; mood disorders; paranoia; phobias; psychosis; and low feelings of self-worth and loss of independence.
The Senior Behavioral Health service offers a wide range of medical and behavioral health services including:
- Psychiatric assessment and treatment
- Management of medical conditions
- Medication management
- Dietary consultation
- Recreational therapy based on assessment
- Individual and group therapy
- Education for patients and families on diagnosis, treatment options, and medications
- Discharge planning and financial counseling
Although a physician referral is required for admission, anyone can begin a referral including friends and family members, primary care physicians, social service agencies, clergy, and long-term care facilities. Each patient is screened prior to admission to ensure that they are medically stable and meet admission criteria. The unit accepts referrals and admissions 24-hours-a-day. Referrals can be called in to: 770-897-7034.
The community is invited to a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Tuesday, February 12, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. Presentations and official “cutting of the ribbon” will take place at 4:45 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.
Southern Regional Medical Center is located at 11 Upper Riverdale Road, SW, Riverdale, GA.