Improving Care and Promoting Alternatives
Emergency Department Use by Connecticut Children and Youth with Behavioral Health Conditions
November 2018
A review of usage, best practices, and strategies to improve care for youth with urgent behavioral health needs in Connecticut
This report examines the issue of youth who are visiting emergency departments (ED) for behavioral health concerns and offers strategies for Connecticut policy makers, hospitals, mental health agencies, and schools to reduce ED use, improve care within EDs, coordinate and integrate care across systems, and advance appropriate alternatives that address the behavioral health needs of these youth.
The report reflects input from a workgroup of family members and representatives of multiple state agencies, hospitals, community behavioral health organizations, schools, and the Connecticut Hospital Association.