"Ensuring our patients have access to the mental health resources they need after leaving the hospital is crucial," said Erie Shores Healthcare CEO and President Kristin Kennedy.
On Thursday, the hospital announced a new partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association Windsor Essex County Branch to seamlessly transition mental health patients from the hospital to specialized services in the community.
It's a first for the hospital since 2019 and aims to improve patient outcomes and reduce hospital admissions.
"By working closely with CMHA-WECB, we are strengthening the continuum of care and ensuring individuals receive the right support at the right time," added Kennedy.
Staff at Erie Shores Healthcare will work closely with CMHA's intake and navigation teams to ensure those facing mental health challenges receive early intervention, case management, and access to counselling and support programs in Leamington.
"Without proper follow-up care, individuals may experience a relapse in symptoms, leading to another crisis and hospitalization," said CMHA-WECB CEO Nicole Sbrocca. "Community supports provide continuity of care, reducing the risk of readmission, and give further credence to the importance of systems working together for all transitions in care, which is better for the patient."