A local treatment program for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness is transitioning its operations to Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.
The Chatham-Kent Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program, currently operated by Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare (HDGH), will transition to CKHA on August 1 and focus on enhancing collaboration and service among local health system partners.
"One of the main objectives of this program transfer is to improve system navigation and coordination for patients, families, and caregivers," said CKHA Vice President of Mental Health and Addictions Alan Stevenson. "We are thrilled to welcome the Chatham-Kent ACT program to CKHA and look forward to building our relationship with this team."
The program is designed to help patients where and when they need it, whether it's in their home or in the community. The ACT team coordinates service delivery with CKHA including access to acute care as required for ACT patients.
"Supporting mental health programs and encouraging people in need of help with these programs positively impacts our communities," said Rick Nicholls, MPP for Chatham-Kent-Leamington. "I am grateful that the Chatham-Kent ACT program is coming to CKHA as of August 1st to better support the mental health needs of the people of Chatham-Kent-Leamington."
According to the release, ACT staff will become employees of CKHA, however, patients of the Chatham-Kent program will remain with the same staff for their care.
"This is a great example of how we are working together to achieve the best health and well-being for the people of Chatham-Kent so close to home," said CKOHT Patient Advisor Co-Chair, Sheila Satchell. "We are decreasing the barriers to accessing mental health resources within our own community." Heath officials said both hospitals have been working with patients for a smooth transition. There will also be no changes to the program’s current location at 321 St. Clair Street in Chatham.
All patients of the Chatham-Kent ACT program will continue to receive services with no planned changes and will continue to have access to the HDGH tertiary mental health program.