PEORIA, Ill. — UnityPoint Health UnityPlace has plans in the works for a new $24 million behavioral health clinic for children and adolescents.
“Especially post-pandemic is an increase in anxiety and depression,” UnityPlace Chief Operating Officer Dean Steiner told news partner 25 News. “The need for additional in-patient beds is strong.”
So far in 2021, UnityPoint has seen a 67% increase in behavioral health assessment referrals for children ages 4 to 17 at emergency rooms.
The new facility would help alleviate the demand for services by nearly doubling the existing 23-bed capacity and providing additional space.
“We do not have enough space to offer things like art therapy and music therapy and exercise space and outdoor space,” Steiner said. “So, as we look at designing this facility, we want all of that incorporated into that.”
The project is in its early stages and is expected to cost around $24 million. UnityPoint is working with Congressman Darin LaHood’s office on possible federal funding for the project.
“Our healthcare community is vital to the future success of Peoria, and this funding will help UnityPoint and our community grow our footprint and better serve central Illinois,” LaHood told 25 News.
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