Improving behavioral health crisis management in emergency departments: exploring community-based approaches and internal operational strategies
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
Emergency department (ED) operations range from managing acute medical patients to serving as a safety net for primary and specialty care needs. The growing demand for behavioral health (BH) services has placed additional pressure on EDs, where challenges such as limited resources, noisy and restrictive environments, and long wait times often result in suboptimal care for BH patients. Multidisciplinary, patient-centered BH care has been shown to improve treatment outcomes. Beyond medical interventions, many BH patients require social support and connections to welfare services to ensure long-term stability. This review examines existing community-based BH service models in the United States and internationally, presenting viable alternatives to ED treatment. Though these models vary in their specific goals, many have been successful in reducing the need for in-hospital interventions for individuals struggling with BH. Accessibility to these services is critical for their effectiveness, enabling BH patients to receive timely and appropriate care outside of emergency settings. Changes to ED structure and protocols are also explored, focusing on practices that have improved BH care delivery. By providing a comprehensive overview of strategies, this thesis highlights potential solutions that could optimize the role of EDs and enhance the overall care quality for BH patients.
Description
2025
License
Attribution 4.0 International