BayCare, the largest provider of behavioral health services in West Central Florida, held a ribbon cutting ceremony on May 26 during Mental Health Awareness Month to mark the opening of its second Behavioral Health Urgent Care. The new center is located at 14541 Seventh St. in Dade City, Florida, and offers walk-in and same-day appointments for adults needing urgent mental health or substance use care.
Tracey Kaly, director of clinical operations for BayCare Behavioral Health, said, “When we opened our first BayCare Behavioral Health Urgent Care in New Port Richey just over a year ago, we expected to serve 400 patients in the first year. Instead, we treated more than 1,700 patients, underscoring the strong need for immediate access to behavioral health care.”
The success of the New Port Richey location prompted demand for a second facility to serve East Pasco County. Visitors to the new Dade City center are welcomed into a calming environment where they receive screening and clinical evaluation before being connected with resources for ongoing care.
“As the region’s leading provider of behavioral health care, BayCare is continually innovating ways to reduce stigma and improve behavioral health outcomes,” said Stephanie Conners, President and CEO of BayCare. “The BayCare Behavioral Health Urgent Care centers are a great example of that commitment and are a model for other health systems throughout the state. Not only are people getting the timely care they need, 97% of patients have received care without the need for hospitalization.”
U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis attended the event along with Pasco County Commissioners Lisa Yeager, Ron Oakley and Seth Weightman, as well as members of the Pasco County Opioid Task Force. Congressman Bilirakis said, “Access to timely, high-quality behavioral health care can make a life-changing difference for individuals and families facing difficult circumstances. I commend BayCare for its leadership and innovation in opening this new Behavioral Health Urgent Care in East Pasco. Too often, individuals experiencing mental health crises or urgent behavioral health needs face barriers, delays or limited options for care. This forward-thinking approach helps ensure that people with critical needs have timely access to the treatment and support they deserve.”
The Dade City center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., with same-day appointments available by calling 352-467-6212.
