Kankakee's Riverside Medical Center Expands Mental Health Care

Kankakee, IL - Riverside Medical Center is embarking on a $28 million project to modernize and expand its behavioral health department. This two-year initiative aims to transform the facility, which currently serves around 60 patients.

Project Details

• Funding Sources: Golf events, charity balls, and other donations.
• Key Improvements:
• Converting outdated double rooms into private rooms.
• Catering to adolescents, adults, and geriatric patients.
• Creating more open spaces with brighter colors and a comforting atmosphere.

Why This Matters

While many hospitals are scaling back on mental health services, Riverside is expanding its offerings. The last major update to this department was in 1973. The current setup includes shared rooms, which limit one-on-one interactions between patients and staff.

Hospital's Commitment

Riverside officials emphasize the importance of mental health services, which are often overlooked. The new design will provide a more conducive environment for healing and communication, replacing the current stark brick walls with a soothing and modern space.

The hospital plans to keep the department operational during construction, ensuring continuous care for patients.