Managed geropsychiatric unit opens. Delaware Valley Medical Center repositions its services for older adults

An analysis of the numbers showed Delaware Valley Medical Center that its existing adult psychiatric unit was no longer making a positive contribution to the hospital's long-term goals. At the same time, other statistics indicated a growing need--both nationally and locally--for geropsychiatric services fueled by the increased lifespan of Americans. Following a market analysis, the hospital set a long-term goal to increase its visibility and impact within the elder community of Lower Bucks County, Pa. It did so, in October 1994, by opening the Behavioral Health Center for Older Adults. Since its opening, the center has steadily increased inpatient admissions, operating at capacity several times during the fourth quarter of operation. By repositioning psychiatric services at Delaware Valley with the aid of a management company, the medical center is now seen as the county's premier provider of geropsychiatric services.