After nearly two years of construction, the highly anticipated Behavioral Health Crisis Center (BHCC) is set to take its first patients on June 25, 2024.
“This center is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal. Through our shared vision and commitment, we have created a center that will provide critical support and resources to those in crisis,” said Julie Morgas Baca, Bernalillo County Manager.
The BHCC is a joint project between Bernalillo County and UNM Hospital. The endeavor was made possible by a behavioral health initiative tax passed by voters in Bernalillo County in 2014 to address the serious need for additional mental health services in the community. Revenues from this tax have allowed Bernalillo County to implement various mental health services throughout the Albuquerque area. In 2022, Bernalillo County partnered with UNM Hospital to create the BHCC, combining $20 million in county funds with a $20 million match from the hospital.
“The partnership between UNM Hospital and Bernalillo County is really a combined effort to create meaningful solutions to some of our community’s biggest challenges. We can be more successful in making a difference when we use our mutual resources, funds and skills to work together. I’m so grateful to County Manager Morgas Baca, the Bernalillo County Commission, and the county’s staff for making this vision a reality with us,” said Kate Becker, CEO of UNM Hospital.
UNM Hospital already provides comprehensive behavioral health care across New Mexico through facilities like the University Psychiatric Center for adults and the Children’s Psychiatric Center. These centers offer psychiatric emergency services, inpatient acute care, psychiatric urgent care and addiction treatment, along with extensive outpatient mental health services. However, gaps remain in available care options for behavioral health patients in New Mexico.
The BHCC aims to bridge these gaps by serving as a centralized facility for patients who require more support than regular outpatient care but do not need traditional inpatient care. The 48,699-square-foot center includes three key service areas designed for different patient needs:
- The Crisis Triage Center (CTC) offers medium-acuity crisis stabilization services with 16 single-patient rooms.
- The Peer-Based “Living Room” Model provides low-acuity walk-in or referral services in an inviting environment.
- The expanded UNM Hospital Psychiatric Emergency Services caters to patients with higher psychiatric acuity.
This new facility's "no wrong door" approach ensures that patients receive access to necessary services.
“This is the beginning of a new chapter in New Mexico health care,” said Bernalillo County Commission Chair Barbara Baca. “The Behavioral Health Crisis Center will offer comprehensive and compassionate care to New Mexicans struggling with behavioral or mental health issues.”
Timeline of Construction:
- December 2018: Approval of capital investment by Bernalillo County Commission
- January 2020: Investment match agreement by UNM Hospital
- October 2020: Site identification on UNM’s campus
- July 2022: Construction begins
- September 2022: Groundbreaking celebration
- June 2024: Ribbon-cutting celebration
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