In a progressive step that is helping improve access to inpatient mental health services, the Pembroke Regional Hospital has launched a new pathway that enables primary care providers to directly refer medically stable patients to the hospital’s Acute Mental Health (AMH) unit for planned admissions.
“This pathway is about putting patients first by ensuring they receive timely, compassionate care,” said Sarah Selle, Clinical Director for Mental Health Services of Renfrew County. “By strengthening collaboration between primary care providers and our inpatient mental health team, we’re creating a seamless transition that supports recovery and continuity of care. Together, we can intervene earlier and provide the right help at the right time.”
The new pathway reflects broader trends in mental health care that prioritize early intervention, integrated care, and reducing reliance on emergency services. By creating a streamlined, collaborative process, Pembroke Regional Hospital is helping to build a more responsive and compassionate mental health system.
“We want to raise awareness that there are different pathways to care. Planned admissions are part of a larger strategy to prevent people from reaching a state of crisis before they get help,” added Bailey Lance-Provencal, Clinical Manager of the hospital’s AMH unit.
Psychiatrist Dr. Valentine Okechukwu said the new pathway facilitates admission for certain patients, aged 18 and older, who are experiencing mental health challenges but are medically stable, as confirmed by recent bloodwork.
“These individuals must meet a set of conditions in order to be able to bypass the Emergency Department. This way, patients who otherwise would have challenges accessing care when necessary, will be able to overcome this barrier. It also reduces the workload on the ED so that only those who must pass through the department do so.”
The referral process is designed to be straightforward and collaborative:
Initial Consultation: A family physician or nurse practitioner discusses the option of a planned admission with the patient and reviews their health.
Health Check: Recent bloodwork is used to confirm medical stability.
Referral Submission: The provider sends the referral to the AMH unit.
Expert Review: A hospital psychiatrist evaluates eligibility.
Admission Scheduled: The AMH Clinical Care Leader contacts the patient with instructions and a confirmed date and time for admission.
Family care providers are also encouraged to call the unit or consult with the psychiatrist if they have questions about eligibility or alternative care options.
“As family doctors or primary care nurse practitioners, we often see patients before their symptoms escalate. Having the ability to refer directly to the AMH Unit means we can act proactively, offering our patients a safe and structured environment to stabilize and begin their recovery,” said Dr. Richard Johnson, Chief of Family Practice at PRH.
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, he added that, “This pathway strengthens the connection between community-based care and hospital services. It ensures that patients receive the right care at the right time, and it helps us tailor treatment plans more effectively.”
(Richard Evans)