RAD Technology Medical Systems (RAD) and Palomar Health joined together to break the sky as modules for the new two-story crisis stabilization unit (CSU) were lofted into place on November 12, 2019. The ceremony highlighted the unique modular technology used to construct the facility. It was also a wonderful opportunity to bring all the parties together to celebrate the new CSU and the treatment it will provide for the North San Diego County region.

The facility was built with off-site construction. The site work and foundation took place onsite while the modules were constructed simultaneously in a factory. The modules were then trucked to a staging area where they waited until they were joined with the foundation at the sky breaking ceremony. Once all the modules, which arrive 80 percent complete, are in place, the finish work will begin on the inside and outside of the facility. The CSU is scheduled to start treating patients in the spring.

When completed, the CSU will provide short term care for patients experiencing an acute psychiatric and/or substance use crisis. It will provide much needed services to mental health patients in a less restrictive environment, freeing Emergency Department beds and improving community safety. The facility will consist of 6,000 square feet and include capacity for 16 patient treatment areas, patient showers, a check-in area, storage for belongings, a nurses’ station, medication storage and an outdoor lounge.

“The Critical Stabilization Unit provides a quiet, safe environment for medically stable patients under direct, constant supervision of professional behavioral health staff,” said Palomar Health COO Sheila Brown, RN, MBA, FACHE. “The CSU is a less restrictive alternative to hospitalization and best suited for this vulnerable population in crisis while freeing beds in the Emergency Department.”

“This is the first mental health project of this kind for RAD,” said President John Lefkus. “We are excited to be branching out in new directions and serving different parts of the healthcare industry with our modular technology business model.”