Emplify Health by Gundersen announced the opening of Wisconsin’s first dedicated emergency mental health facility, the Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment and Healing (EmPATH) unit, at its La Crosse campus in April. The facility represents a significant advancement in behavioral healthcare access for the region.
Patients experiencing a mental health emergency will continue to present to the Emergency Room but are then transferred to the new EmPATH unit, where they can stay for up to 23 hours. This model aims to reduce wait times and provide specialized care in a calming environment. The unit spans 5,000 square feet and includes eight exam rooms equipped with appropriate technology, along with dedicated spaces for assessments and interventions.
“We’re excited to offer yet another avenue of care for our neighbors who need support for their mental health,” said Josh Court, director of Emplify Health by Gundersen Behavioral Health. “We understand the critical need for this type of care, and Emplify Health by Gundersen is committed to leading with innovative models like EmPATH.”
Upon arrival, patients meet with a psychiatric provider within the first hour to review diagnoses, treatment plans, and medication. They then work with other behavioral health professionals to address the immediate crisis. After stabilization, the treatment team determines the best next steps, which may include transfer to inpatient behavioral health or discharge with follow-up in outpatient programs.
The EmPATH unit is a key component of Emplify Health’s broader strategy to improve mental health services. By providing a dedicated space and streamlined process, the facility reduces emergency department congestion and delivers care in a setting designed for psychiatric needs. The unit also offers support for families and caregivers during crises.
“The space is a vital tool for our staff, allowing them to provide immediate and effective care for patients in mental health crises,” Court said. “This space is designed to immediately bring healing to patients, as well as facilitate quick assessments and interventions, ensuring individuals receive the support they need as soon as they arrive. Our goal is to create a safe haven where patients can feel secure and begin their journey toward recovery.”
The opening of Wisconsin’s first EmPATH unit underscores a growing recognition of the need for specialized emergency mental health care. As mental health crises continue to rise, facilities like this provide an alternative to traditional emergency rooms, which are often ill-equipped to handle psychiatric emergencies. The EmPATH model has been adopted in several states and is associated with improved patient outcomes and reduced hospitalizations.
For more information about Emplify Health and its services, visit emplifyhealth.org.
