Thursday, September 6, 2001
WARREN -- Belmont Pines Hospital's new adolescent facility has 35 beds for long-term treatment of youths between 11 and 18.
The unit is on the second floor of the former St. Joseph Health Center. It handles youths with severe, long-standing emotional and behavioral problems.
Richard Feldman, Belmont Pines chief executive, said the demand for such services is so strong that there is a waiting list for treatment at the Belmont Pines' Liberty facility.
The hospital received state certification for the new facility in June and an open house was held Wednesday.
The unit employs about 50 full-time and part-time workers, including psychiatrists, social workers, nurses, activity therapists and counselors.
Treatment takes place in a locked setting.
Patients are referred from children and family service agencies, other county agencies and the courts.