EmPATH

EmPATH is a model of care that helps eliminate isolation and extended wait times by placing patients in a shared, open area where Caregivers, behavioral health experts and other patients interact and support one another. EmPATH is an emergent need unit developed for individualized psychiatric and behavioral health care with limited visitation.

Our approach

Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment and Healing

Designed to be a calming, comfortable space where patients can be assessed and treated, the primary focus of the EmPATH unit will be to return the patients safely to their homes with the support of outpatient services, their families and community resources.

Ultimately, the EmPATH unit will work to reduce the need for extended Emergency Department stays or hospital admittance.

Treatment team includes

Physicians
Advanced practice providers
Registered nurses

Mental health technicians
Associate mental health professionals
Care navigators

Related Services

Emergency Care

Centra Emergency departments are open 24 hours to serve patients who are seriously injured or ill and require immediate care.

Psychiatry & Behavioral Health

Centra Psychiatry & Behavioral Health offers expert, personal care.

Where you can find us

We have a number of conveniently located facilities in your neighborhood. See all Locations

Centra Lynchburg General Hospital

1901 Tate Springs Rd
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Get Directions

Call 434.200.3000

Centra Foundation's Greatest Need Fund

The emPATH unit was made possible by a grateful patient's anonymous $1M donation to Centra Foundation's Greatest Need fund.

The Community Health Needs Assessment, conducted in 2021, identified mental health among the top health concerns affecting the communities of Central Virginia. Centra remains committed to providing care that will empower every community member to live their best life. The launch of an emPATH unit by Centra's Department of Emergency Services in collaboration with Psychiatry/Behavioral Health is exciting evidence of this continued commitment.

Make a gift to the Greatest Need fund