Inpatient Behavioral Health Unit Meets Critical Community Need in Northeast Florida

A new 20-bed Behavioral Health and Wellness Unit has opened at Wolfson Children’s Hospital, located in Jacksonville, Florida. The unit, which serves inpatient adult and pediatric behavioral health patients, expands the hospital’s capacity to care for those requiring hospitalization for serious mental health conditions. The project team included Hoefer Welker, Danis Construction and TLC Engineering Solutions.

The project involved 13,000 square feet of renovation and features designated shared staff support spaces, including offices, workrooms, supply and equipment rooms, nourishment and medication spaces and a seclusion suite accessible from both units. Four patient rooms are for patients on the autism spectrum and offer access to the exam and quiet rooms adjacent to the unit, as needed.

Patients have customizable options, control and the opportunity to interact at their comfort levels within the unit. All patients can control the lighting colors in their rooms, choosing from preselected, scientifically chosen colors to fit their mood. Beyond the patient rooms are nooks strategically placed throughout the unit’s floor. These spaces allow patients to sit and interact at their comfort level, while simultaneously maintaining their individual level of control and safety needs.