7/11/2025
ALTOONA, Pa. – UPMC Altoona recognized the opening of its behavioral health pod in the emergency department with a symbolic ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, July 11. The behavioral health pod will provide patients seeking emergency treatment for behavioral health conditions with a dedicated, safe and therapeutic environment separate from the traditional emergency department.
“Treatment for behavioral health emergencies require a unique approach compared to physical medicine,” said Sybil Rossi, chief nursing officer and vice president of Patient Care Services, UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital. “While traditional emergency departments are essential, they may not always provide the best setting for those in psychological distress. That’s why this pod in UPMC Altoona’s emergency department was created — to provide a dedicated, safe, and therapeutic space with trained professionals focused on recovery-centered care to support individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises. This innovative approach provides our patients with a better experience in private and less stimulating environment to begin healing.”
The opening of the behavioral health pod represents a significant milestone and step toward addressing the mental health needs of Blair and surrounding counties with a specialized model for integrated emergency and behavioral health services. Behavioral health conditions are among the most common health conditions in the nation, and access to behavioral health services remains a top priority across UPMC and in the communities it serves.
Behavioral health disorders include a spectrum of conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders and substance use disorders. By reducing overstimulation and enhancing safety and privacy, the innovative environment allows for more timely consultations, a projected 20% reduction in admissions to inpatient treatment and a smoother transition back into the community for those seeking care.
“Being part of a project that will make a positive impact on the lives of people right here in our own backyard, our neighbors, friends, and family, is something special,” said Mike Corso, president, UPMC Altoona and UPMC Bedford. “The need for behavioral health care continues to grow, not just in Altoona but across the country. Access to timely, compassionate care, administered by trained health professionals, can not only change lives, but save lives. That’s what makes this behavioral health pod so important, not just to me but to the town I call home.”
The project was made possible through generous partners who helped fund the initiative. This includes the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs in conjunction with Blair County Drug and Alcohol Programs authorized by Governor Josh Shapiro’s office and facilitated through the executive director, Judy Rosser, along with state representatives, Congressman Dr. John Joyce, Blair County commissioners, the City of Altoona Mayor Matt Pacifico, Altoona City Council and the UPMC Altoona Foundation.
UPMC Altoona’s behavioral health pod officially opened and started serving patients on July 8. It is expected to care for five to seven patients each day.
