“Since the Novant Health telepsychiatry program began, 86% of students referred to the program have not required ER evaluations due to the crisis management and safety planning services we provide.”

–Malika Neal Licensed clinical social worker, Novant Health Telepsychiatry

With cases of depression and anxiety in children on the rise, philanthropy is funding creative and effective ways to respond faster to potential mental health crises and reduce the need for emergency department visits, at no cost to the families. When school counselors, behavior specialists, school social workers, or school psychologists identify a student in need in Brunswick or Rowan-Salisbury County Schools they have access to the Novant Health behavioral health team. The program currently serves 20 Brunswick County schools and 32 Rowan-Salisbury County schools, providing support for over 31,000 students in North Carolina.

"Our mindset must be one of going to patients and meeting their needs where they are... Mental health is going to be a part of how we deliver health care in every discipline across the continuum of care."

–Sam Pullen, D.O.
System physician executive, Novant Health Psychiatry and Mental Health Institute

As an important, complex, and high-demand specialty of Novant Health, behavioral health care presents challenges to patients and providers as they deal with referrals, extended treatment timelines, and integrating care with other health services. To overcome an array of logistical barriers, the foundation helped fund a partnership with Neuroflow, a digital health platform that helps identify and treat patients with behavioral health needs.

"Seeking help for mental health or substance use disorders shouldn't intensify the distress. Our enhanced transportation program ensures a more dignified and compassionate journey for patients in need."

–Mary Williams
Market Director, Novant Health Psychiatry & Mental Health Institute

With community and team member donor support, Novant Health New Hanover Behavioral Health Hospital is ensuring individuals facing mental health challenges receive the support they need in a dignified and respectful manner. Patients, once transported in law enforcement vehicles, now experience a more humane journey with unmarked, modified passenger vehicles offering safety and comfort, while reducing the stigma around mental health.

Previously, patients faced restraint even when not violent during transfers in sheriff vehicles. The new approach fosters a safer and more compassionate environment, with trained drivers, safety measures, and partitions ensuring patient well-being during transport.