INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana's first new state psychiatric hospital in more than 50 years is about to open.
A ribbon-cutting took place Friday at the Neuro-Diagnostic Institute on East 16th Street, next to Community East Hospital.
The 159 bed facility will serve a diverse group of patients and will focus on brain-based disorders, including: Acute and chronic mental illness, chronic addictions, intellectual and developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, and illnesses such as Alzheimers.
"In recent decades, out state's commitment to advancing the quality of care for our severely psychiatric ill friends and family and neighbors has been inconsistent," said Dr. Jennifer Walthall, Secretary of the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. "It has taken bold leadership and commitment to a compassionate vision to get us here today."
The new facility will eventually replace Larue Carter Hospital on Cold Spring Road.
Patients will be referred to the new hospital from community mental health centers, other state psychiatric hospitals and judicial partners.
