OWENSBORO, Ky. (WEVV) — RiverValley Behavioral Health Children’s Hospital has earned the 2026 Kentucky Hospital Association Quality Award for its work in psychiatric care, marking the first time the organization has received the statewide honor.
The KHA Quality Team selected the hospital for the development of the BIRCH Program, a specialized long-term treatment initiative for high-acuity youth. Reviewers noted the program’s measurable outcomes and the hospital’s commitment to advancing behavioral health services across the state.
Launched in August 2024, the BIRCH Program serves male adolescents ages 12 to 17 who require six to nine months of intensive, trauma-informed treatment. The program was developed in partnership with and funded by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services to address gaps in the behavioral health system.
“Since opening The BIRCH, we’ve seen youth who once faced repeated placement challenges successfully transition to less restrictive levels of care with greater stability and hope,” said Katie Demko-Day, Administrator of RVBH Children’s Hospital.
Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta, President and CEO of RVBH, said the award underscores the hospital’s leadership in raising the standard of care through clinical expertise and collaboration.
The hospital will be formally recognized during the 2026 KHA Quality Conference on March 23 at the Louisville Marriott East.