SPOKANE, Wash. — Providence is changing how behavioral health care is delivered at Sacred Heart Medical Center starting July 14.
The health system announced psych triage services in the emergency department will move to a new department staffed by licensed therapists. Providence said that matches best practices used across health systems.
Providence also said mental health support roles in the emergency departments and adult geropsychiatric unit will shift to staffing models using certified nursing assistants with specialized training. Patients will still receive individual and group therapy from the current licensed therapist.
The changes will affect about 40 positions at Sacred Heart Medical Center. Providence said it planned to support affected caregivers with job options and other resources during the transition.
Patient care will continue without interruption and all behavioral health services will remain available, Providence said.
“Behavioral health needs in our community have changed, and it is our responsibility to adapt,” said Providence Chief Executive Susan Stacey. “It’s important to know that these services are not going away. By evolving our model of care, we are better positioned to provide the right level of clinical expertise for a vulnerable population. This change ultimately allows us to serve our community.”
Providence said the decision was not based on finances and was not a judgment of the employees’ work, but meant to respond to changing behavioral health needs and maintain appropriate clinical care.