A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation by representatives from Baptist Health, who introduced a newly established emergency room in Miami Lakes. Michael Celying, regional director for emergency medicine at Baptist Health Outpatient Services, recounted his journey over the past eight years to establish this facility. He emphasized that “every patient deserves to be treated in a safe environment by knowledgeable staff providing quality care.”

The new emergency room features 22 beds and is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, including automated CPR machines and high-flow oxygen systems. Celying noted that the facility had seen a high patient volume, averaging 200 patients per day post-pandemic.

Blake Natino, a registered nurse with extensive emergency experience, detailed the operations of the facility, which had treated over 2,000 patients since opening two months ago. Natino highlighted their collaborative approach with other healthcare entities, stressing that their goal was to provide a comfortable environment for patients. He emphasized the importance of distinguishing between urgent care and emergency care, advising that patients with severe symptoms should seek emergency medical attention.

The emergency room’s capabilities include diagnostic imaging services like CT scans and ultrasounds, alongside on-site laboratory services capable of administering blood products. Natino boasted an average wait time of under two hours for patients, attributing this efficiency to their streamlined processes. He explained that their average length of stay was shorter than traditional hospital emergency departments, facilitated by their dedicated staff and advanced facilities.

In addition to the focus on emergency services, the meeting was a platform for discussing mental health resources and crisis intervention strategies within the community. One of the key speakers was Hopsy Kaba, who oversees the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program for Miami-Dade County. Kaba highlighted the program’s aim to improve crisis response systems, particularly concerning law enforcement’s role during mental health crises. The CIT program, operational for over two decades, provides law enforcement officers with tools and training necessary to handle crises effectively.

Kaba emphasized the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, mental health professionals, and the community. She noted that the CIT model ensures the most appropriate response is dispatched, which may not always involve police intervention. The program has resulted in significant outcomes, with over 115,000 diversions from potential arrest and a reduction in the average daily census in the county jail system.

Another contributor to the discussion was Maria Gohard, vice president of behavioral health at Thriving Mind South Florida. Gohard outlined the organization’s role as a safety net for uninsured or underinsured individuals, linking them to necessary treatment services. She stressed the importance of prevention efforts targeted at youth, collaborating with Miami-Dade County Public Schools to raise awareness about substance use and mental health.

Gohard also spoke about crisis services funded by Thriving Mind, including partnerships with crisis stabilization units and the national suicide prevention hotline, 988. Despite its availability, Gohard expressed concern about the lack of awareness regarding the 988 resource, advocating for increased visibility and promotion across various platforms.

The meeting also highlighted the role of the Mobile Response Team (MRT), introduced by Luciana Beltran. This team of licensed clinicians is available 24/7 to respond to mental health and substance abuse crises throughout Miami-Dade County. The MRT is tasked with assessing cases, particularly during the school year, and aims to de-escalate situations to reduce hospitalizations.

Peers, who have lived experiences with mental health challenges, offer unique insights and support during crises. This approach has proven effective in helping individuals navigate their recovery processes and preventing future crises.