Admitting Patients

When the first contact is by telephone, the Walden Psychiatric Admissions Team (PAT) completes an "intake," gathering the information needed to determine the potential patient's symptoms and appropriate level of care. Some of the information may include patient demographics, past and present medical histories, insurance information, and referral information.

The patient's safety and the urgency of medical needs are assessed immediately, and appropriate transportation is discussed. In all cases, a triage clinician assesses the patient's behavior and determines if the patient has a life-threatening problem. The PAT and an attending or on-call psychiatrist review evaluations collaboratively.

The evaluation includes:

• The patient's chief complaint
• A history of the presenting problem
• Family, social and psychiatric histories, including any history of alcohol or drug abuse, or eating disorders
• Current treatment modalities
• Current medication regime
• Medical diagnosis
• Mental status assessment
• Nutrition review
• Risk assessment of current or potential harm to self or others
• Clinical data from outpatient providers and family

For admissions or referrals, call Walden Behavioral Care at
781-647-6727
or e-mail us at info@waldenbehavioralcare.com.

The Journey Begins Here

A comprehensive evaluation takes place before patients enter any Walden treatment program.

In addition to ensuring that our services match the needs of the patient, the evaluation provides an opportunity for patients to learn about program goals and expectations, and for the treatment team to design an initial treatment plan.

The PAT assesses all potential patients, including those who have symptoms of eating disorders, psychiatric disorders, addictions or dual diagnoses (i.e., symptoms of multiple disorders).

To be evaluated, potential patients may be self-referred, or referred by a family member or a professional. Professionals who refer patients include primary care physicians, managed-care representatives and other insurers, community health center staff, private therapists, crisis teams and others.

The PAT assesses the following:

• Medical condition
• Psychiatric condition
• Medication use
• Nutrition needs
• Family and other support systems
• Previous treatment and outcomes

In addition, the PAT does everything necessary to ensure a smooth, comfortable transition to the appropriate level of care. It provides information about programs to patients and their families or supporters, answers their questions and addresses their concerns.

The initial assessment, treatment and referral begin at the first point of contact with the PAT. The PAT reviews insurance benefits and presents clinical information to insurance carriers for approval of admission. It also initiates treatment planning, as well as post-treatment referral discussion.

The Walden PAT includes intake coordinators, nurses, social workers and physicians.