Altru Health System and Universal Health Services (UHS) have recently marked an important milestone in their ongoing commitment to mental health care with the announcement of plans to expand inpatient behavioral health services at the Altru Behavioral Health Center. A ceremonial groundbreaking was held on June 17, 2025, which signifies the start of an extensive expansion project aimed at addressing the critical need for mental health services in North Dakota.
Currently, the Altru Behavioral Health Center operates with 24 licensed beds, all under the Joint Commission’s accreditation and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) licensure. This facility not only provides inpatient care but also offers outpatient behavioral health services, ensuring a more integrated experience for patients seeking help.
The ambitious expansion project will increase the inpatient unit’s capacity from 24 beds to 48 licensed beds, a significant enhancement intended to accommodate the growing demand for such services. The completion of this project is anticipated by the fall of 2026, providing a more extensive safety net for mental health care in the community. This initiative has received strong support from the state of North Dakota, which allocated $12.96 million in funding as part of recent legislation aimed at improving healthcare services, particularly in the arena of behavioral health.
“Altru’s commitment to improving behavioral health services is unwavering,” stated Todd Forkel, CEO of Altru Health System. He emphasized the immense importance of this expansion, which will enable the health system to reach and serve a wider population across the state. Forkel expressed gratitude to local legislative representatives for their advocacy, which helped channel the necessary funding to make this project a reality.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Matt Peterson, President of the Behavioral Health Division at UHS, remarked on the escalating mental health crises facing the nation. He stated, “The need for high-quality mental healthcare has never been more crucial,” noting the increasing rate of individuals seeking help in recent years. Peterson reiterated UHS’s dedication to delivering compassionate care and expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Altru Health System to expand services in the Red River Valley.
The groundbreaking event not only celebrated this crucial step forward but also featured commentary from key figures such as Governor Kelly Armstrong, Altru’s President Dr. Josh Deere, and North Dakota House Representative Emily O’Brien, who has been a strong advocate for the funding bill. Their presence underscored the significance of community support in building a robust behavioral health infrastructure.
This expansion marks a significant leap forward in addressing mental health challenges in the region. As the importance of mental health continues to gain recognition, facilities like the Altru Behavioral Health Center play a vital role in providing necessary treatment and support.
The decision to expand the center is rooted in the understanding that mental health issues affect thousands of individuals in North Dakota. Increased availability of inpatient behavioral health services will help diminish waiting times and ensure patients receive timely care, which is essential for effective treatment outcomes.
Moreover, the collaboration between Altru Health System and Universal Health Services brings substantial benefits given UHS’s extensive experience and established reputation in the field of behavioral healthcare. Their involvement is expected to enhance the quality of care and operational efficiencies at Altru, ultimately benefiting patients seeking help.
In today’s world, filled with ongoing changes and uncertainties, mental health has become a central focus, with many individuals experiencing heightened anxiety, depression, or stress. Expanding facilities like the Altru Behavioral Health Center is crucial in fostering a healthier community where individuals feel supported, understood, and empowered to seek help.
As construction begins, many in the local community are likely feeling hopeful about the increased resources for mental health care. The groundbreaking ceremony serves not only as a launch of a physical structure but also symbolizes a collective commitment to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.
In conclusion, the expansion of the Altru Behavioral Health Center is a commendable development intended to uplift the health and wellness of the North Dakota community. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of Altru Health System, Universal Health Services, and the support from state leaders, this initiative promises to enhance access to quality mental health care services for years to come. As this project unfolds, it is a testament to the importance of prioritizing mental health and providing the necessary resources to support those in need.
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