josely.labarrere@bluegrassnewsmedia.com

 

In a move to enhance mental health care in the region, the Ephraim McDowell Health Care Foundation, Inc. has dedicated $58,000 to expanding outpatient behavioral health services at Ephraim McDowell Health (EMH). This funding, made possible entirely by generous donors, aims to provide better access to much-needed mental health support.

The decision to allocate these funds was guided by the latest Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), which identified mental health and substance abuse as major challenges across the six-county area served by EMH. The assessment revealed a significant gap in care, emphasizing the need for more services to help individuals struggling with mental health conditions and addiction, as well as offering support to their families.

“Our Community Health Needs Assessment highlighted the critical demand for behavioral health services in our region,” said Laura Richard, Executive Director of the Ephraim McDowell Health Care Foundation, Inc. “Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we are able to make a meaningful impact by expanding access to essential mental health care. This funding reflects our commitment to improving lives and supporting those on their journey to recovery and wellness.”

The expansion will allow more patients to receive care through Ephraim McDowell’s outpatient behavioral health program. With the additional funding, the program has moved to a larger facility, creating a more comfortable space for patients and allowing for an increase in services.

“We are grateful to have received the Foundation’s financial support that allowed us to relocate to a larger facility where we can expand our services and create a more comfortable environment for our patients,” said Dr. Stuart Larson, a board-certified psychiatrist at Ephraim McDowell Behavioral Health.

Ephraim McDowell Behavioral Health, located at 124 Daniel Drive in Danville, serves adults and children ages 5 and older. The team includes Dr. Larson, five advanced practice nurse practitioners, and two clinical social workers. Telehealth services are also available for those who need them. New patients can be seen by referral from a primary care provider.

About the Ephraim McDowell Health Care Foundation, Inc.

For more than 25 years, the Ephraim McDowell Health Care Foundation, Inc. has been dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the communities served by Ephraim McDowell Health. Through philanthropic support and community outreach, the Foundation works to ensure that patients receive advanced, compassionate care while also addressing critical health challenges in the region.

To learn more about the Foundation’s efforts, visit emhealth.org/health-care-foundation or contact Laura Richard at ldirchard@emhealth.org.