McKee announces construction of short stay unit at Butler Hospital

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee on Wednesday announced the construction of a 25-bed short stay unit at Butler Hospital.

The construction will be funded through the State Fiscal Recover Fund moving forward from the COVID-19 pandemic.

https://twitter.com/GovDanMcKee/status/1707055378725228811

“This important project will provide behavioral healthcare through mental health and substance abuse treatment, crisis intervention, and other services,” McKee said.

“This project falls under one of the three pillars of our Administration’s Rhode Island 2030 Plan – to create a healthier Rhode Island where we reduce chronic illness and improve health outcomes,” he said.

The unit will provide treatment initiation for patients with mental health needs, rather than overcrowded emergency rooms at local hospitals.

It will be designed for multiple people to use, including private isolation rooms.

The project is expected to be done next year.