EvergreenHealth Needs To Step Up On Behavioral Health Care

A letter to the EvergreenHealth CEO Tomlin and the Commissioners:

Thank you Candace for your and Commissioners/CEO Tomlin's interpretation of the "Seattle Times" August 11 article.

The article flatly states: "The county has no walk-in urgent care center for people experiencing a mental health crisis, youths and adults wait hours or days in emergency departments before landing an inpatient bed." Seattle Times, 8/11/2022.

EvergreenHealth's two emergency departments are not the only option for community members requiring "same day intervention." Providence/Everett has proven that. CEO Tomlin can do more than advocating for greater resources. He can provide treatment. But, providing space for NAMI Eastside forums and other "soft" resources is appreciated.

Thank you CEO Tomlin for "evaluating and evolving" your services to remain in close contact with the county and "other community organizations" however, the Eastside population is exploding and Overlake can't do it all. You must be willing to give a little to get a lot. (goodwill, bond passage assurance, media exposure, county support and resources, grants,) The commissioners owe it to their "constituents" and community members to provide treatment rather than whitewash a remedy with advocacy.

Of note: "The Providence Medical Group Behavioral Health Urgent Care provides timely access to behavioral health services for adults 18 and over presenting in a mental health crisis. The program is designed as an alternative treatment setting for those who need urgent (same day) intervention, but do not necessarily require the services of the Emergency Room." -- Providence BHUC website

Before the pandemic, Kay Taylor, the Director of Nursing, et all were days away from a site visit to Providence Medical Group Behavioral Health Urgent Care. At that time it was a pilot program for them. They passed the test under severe Covid conditions and operate today. CEO Tomlin, when you have staff resources, I encourage you to visit Providence/Everett, listen and learn. Thank you.

My regards to commissioner Pilcher.

Best,

Bob Yoder
Redmond, WA.
425-802-2523
redmondblog.org
file

NAMI National says approximately 2 in 5 adults in the United States experience a mental health condition.

NAMI Eastside is having their GALA, September 8th at the Redmond Marriott. Overlake usually sponsors.

When "action" will be taken outside of your Educational Executive sessions will you please let me know or post on agenda? I may want to comment. Thank you.