This increased availability has been crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic and services can now be accessed not only in-person, but, virtually via Telehealth
Meridian Behavioral Healthcare, Inc. is continuing to enhance access to much-needed services to our clients by offering on-demand, 24/7 access to mental healthcare counselors.
One year into the global pandemic, Meridian has continued to meet our clients’ changing and evolving needs. Additionally, in 2020 alone we experienced a more than 500% increase in use of our Telehealth services, accommodating clients while keeping everyone safe. Expanding on-demand access to our clients helps to meet them where they are and when their needs are most critical.
“Access to care must be available when needed, not limited to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays,” said Meridian President/CEO, Don Savoie. “We all must remember that the definition of crisis and need can be individual, based on what each person is going through at the time. Delays in access to assessment and treatment only increase an individual’s symptoms. Being available to help folks when they reach out is a critical component of recovery, and it is Meridian’s goal to be available when folks do contact us for care,” continued Savoie.
On-demand services are available 24/7 for new patients and current patients experiencing a crisis at www.mbhci.org/telehealth.
One Meridian client said, “during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was able to access treatment with Meridian using Telehealth.” She experienced a personal crisis and immediately contacted Meridian. “The moment it happened, I was able to video chat with my therapist instantaneously, and she helped me de-escalate the situation. Now I am stabilized and can’t thank Meridian enough.”
This type of on-demand care provides vital, life-saving services when individuals need it the most. We have trained professionals available around the clock to speak with our clients, and future clients, during their time of crisis and when they need extra support.
To access care from Meridian, dial (352) 374-5600 or (800) 330-5615. New clients should select option 2, and then option 1. Returning clients can dial the same numbers and select option 3 to schedule a follow-up appointment. New or returning clients experiencing a crisis can dial the same numbers and select option 1. For on-demand care virtually, please visit www.mbhci.org/telehealth or walk-in at either of our 24-hour facilities in Gainesville or Lake City.