Referral Information for Senior Behavioral Health Unit

Referral line: (920) 390-7303 (24 hours/day & 7 days/week)
Secure fax: (920) 206-3153
Confidential email: bpritch@watertownregional.com

If you or a loved one is feeling unsafe, homicidal or suicidal, please call 911 immediately or seek care at your local Emergency Department.

About Senior Behavioral Health Unit

Watertown Regional Medical Center’s Senior Behavioral Health Unit (SBHU) provides individualized care for adults 65 and older who are suffering from acute symptoms associated with a major mental health illness. On a case-by-case basis, individuals who are younger than 65 years old may be admitted to the unit.  This could include clinical depression, anxiety disorders, psychiatric and medical issues related to dementia, acute psychosis and altered mental state or bi-polar illness. Inpatient hospitalization offers stabilization and treatment for those experiencing serious behavioral or mental changes.  The average stay for our patients is 10-12 days.

The 15-bed unit provides a confidential and supportive atmosphere, where patients receive care that is individualized to their needs. Because we are a hospital-based facility, we can manage complex patients who may be dealing with chronic medical conditions as well as senior mental health issues. 

Patients admitted to our Senior Behavioral Health Unit will receive a psychiatric evaluation to help determine the possible causes of the behavioral and mental changes. We will also check for any underlying medical issues that may contribute to behavioral changes. We will then work with the patient, family and other health professionals to develop a course of treatment that best meets the needs of the individual. 

Comprehensive Care 

Our program offers:

• A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
• A thorough medical history and physical exam
• 24-hour nursing and medical support
• Medication management and education
• Individualized treatment planning
• Diagnostic testing
• Family support and education
• Basic life skills enhancement
• Recreational therapy
• Individual and group therapy
• Referral and follow-up services
• Seamless counseling services through Directions Counseling Center

Resources

Admission information for patients and families. Admissions are accepted 24 hours/day. Potential patients can enter themselves for care or be referred by family or friends. SBHU's medical director makes the final decision regarding admission.

Referral information for healthcare professionals. Patient needs to meet inpatient level of care as determined by healthcare provider and required documents must be sent to SBHU's Medical Director prior to admission.

Senior Behavioral Health Unit Medical Director

Location