Partial Hospitalization, a New Alternative

Article submitted by Synergy Behavioral Health,
For more information, they can be reached at 228-392-3240.

A relatively new approach to adults with psychiatric, emotional or mental illness is the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). It can be used as an alternative to inpatient care for individuals who do not require overnight supervision, as a transition from inpatient care to the community, or as an intense outpatient treatment program.

Each client is assessed by a comprehensive team of healthcare professionals, then an individualized treatment plan with goals is adopted and reviewed frequently. A typical day might include medical management, group therapy, education on modifying behavior, practicing of new life skills, identifying community support systems and learning to take better care of one's self. A distinct benefit of the program is that the patient can go home and put into practice what was learned that day, then return the next day and debrief.

Common outcomes might be increased use of coping skills, relearning of problem solving skills, identifying emotional strengths and limitations and improving self-esteem. Family counseling is also a major component of a PHP. With intensive short-term treatment coupled with ongoing support, clients can generally rebound faster from setbacks in the course of their illnesses. They can, potentially, shorten crisis periods and prevent hospitalization.

Meals and transportation generally are provided, as is Specialized Geriatric programming. PHP is reimbursable by Medicare. If you know someone who needs help getting back to "being themselves," look into a Partial Hospitalization Program. It may be just the ticket!