Political Quotes

“with great pride, I rise today to acknowledge the successful and effective implementation of the behavioral health pod in the emergency department at UPMC Altoona. Supported in part with Federal funding that I was honored to facilitate, this innovative space provides patients seeking emergency treatment for behavioral health conditions with a dedicated, safe, and therapeutic environment separated from the traditional emergency department. As the first anniversary of the pod's opening at UPMC Altoona approaches, approximately 500 patients have already benefited from this novel treatment approach. Across Pennsylvania, fewer than five behavioral health pods are operational. Within the health pod, trained professionals focus on recovery-centered care support, offering individuals who need that mental health or substance use expertise in times of crisis. Clinicians have emphasized that this approach provides patients with a better experience in a private and less stimulating environment to begin their healing process. On behalf of all the constituents in the 13th Congressional District, I congratulate UPMC on this successful implementation.”