Ascension Saint Thomas Behavioral Health Hospital is marking its fifth full year of service, highlighting significant growth in behavioral health access and care delivery for individuals across Tennessee and the surrounding region.
Since opening in December 2020, the hospital has served more than 12,000 individuals through its inpatient and outpatient programs. During its years in operation, the hospital has averaged more than 2,300 patients annually, reflecting rising community need and the hospital’s increased capacity to meet that demand.
Patients have sought services from 85 of Tennessee’s 95 counties and 42 states, positioning Ascension Saint Thomas Behavioral Health Hospital as a regional destination for high quality behavioral health care.
Over the past five years, the hospital expanded to 90 licensed inpatient beds and built a comprehensive continuum of services. Offerings include adult inpatient psychiatric care, a dedicated older adult unit, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient programs, electroconvulsive therapy and a first of its kind intensive outpatient program for first responders. Patient volume has increased more than fourfold since the hospital’s first full year of operation.
“Our focus is simple. We meet people where they are and remove barriers to care,” said Jeremy Mercer, chief executive officer. “As we grow, we expand access and strengthen partnerships while maintaining a commitment to the highest quality of care.”
Two leaders who have been with the hospital since opening reflected on the milestone.
“A major part of our work has been building strong community partnerships so people can reach the right level of care at the right time,” said Nichole Hollinsworth, director of business development. “Working side by side with providers, first responders, schools and community agencies allows us to meet needs earlier and more effectively.”
“Each year we build on a strong foundation of quality,” said Lincoln Lawrence, director of quality. “Our focus remains consistent. We improve outcomes, enhance the patient experience and raise the bar for behavioral health care across the region.”
Expanding access to care remains a central priority. Since opening, the hospital has received referrals from nearly 100 hospitals and established a network of more than 300 referral partners. Those partners include emergency departments, crisis response agencies, outpatient providers, colleges and universities, employee assistance programs and other community organizations. The hospital has also conducted nearly 2,000 walk-in evaluations, reinforcing its commitment to removing barriers to care.
Ascension Saint Thomas Behavioral Health Hospital provides 24/7 walk-in access for adults experiencing a mental health crisis and works closely with community organizations to support safe transitions and continuity of care throughout the region.
