Construction has begun on a $36 million replacement and expansion of The University of New Mexico Hospital Children’s Psychiatric Center (CPC) that will increase the number of beds available for New Mexico’s most vulnerable children and adolescents and allow providers to practice modern psychiatric treatments. Funding for this project was made possible when voters approved a Higher Education General Obligation Bond in 2022.
“Today marks a transformative step forward for our most vulnerable children and adolescents in New Mexico. The new Children’s Psychiatric Center is a beacon of hope, ensuring that every child facing a mental health crisis has access to modern care in a safe, supportive environment,” said Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. “This investment in our future reflects our commitment to prioritizing mental health and well-being for all New Mexicans.”
The turning over of dirt marks the beginning of an estimated two-year construction process, and progress towards a goal more than 10 years in the making aimed at providing better behavioral health care options and increased access for children in need across the state.
“This project may appear to be another building for some,” said Mike Richards, MD, MPA, Interim Executive Vice President for UNM Health Sciences and CEO of the UNM Health System. “But to so many, this project represents parents knowing they have a safe place to take their children or teens during a mental health crisis. It means that New Mexico’s children will have modern and welcoming space where they will receive compassionate care utilizing the latest and most effective treatments.”
Nearly 50 years ago, the CPC was built as a series of cottages on the premise that children stayed in the facility for a year or more, but that is no longer the model of best practice. Patients today stay at the CPC for an average of 10-11 days.
“When the original facilities were built, the model of care was significantly different,” said Kate Becker, CEO of UNM Hospital. “We are grateful that New Mexico’s voters gave us the opportunity to improve the environment of care we’re providing.”…