Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare, Inc.

Who We Are

Since 1971, Southwestern has provided a comprehensive array of mental health services in our community. As one of Indiana's community mental health centers, Southwestern serves approximately 8,000 patients in Gibson, Posey, Vanderburgh, and Warrick Counties each year.

Although Southwestern opened its doors for operation in 1971, our history can be traced back to 1948 with the establishment of the Child Guidance Center, an ahead-of-its-time treatment facility on Evansville's west side that brought outpatient treatment to children and families. Then in 1964, an adult outpatient clinic was created and was supported financially by state and county funding. Our community's interest in treating mental illness in a non-institutional setting began many years before Southwestern existed.

In the 1960s, when President Kennedy called for the establishment of community mental health centers across the country, Southwestern was created and the Child Guidance Center and the adult outpatient clinic eventually became part of Southwestern.

Our rich heritage and strong community roots have allowed Southwestern to meet the needs of individuals, families, and the community through the years. With the expertise of a highly trained staff of approximately 250 employees, we continue to care for our community by providing quality mental health services from 14 locations in our four-county service area.

Our Values

"Who We Are" is shaped by more than just our history, the size of our staff, and the number of offices from which we operate. We uphold many policies that reflect our values and our mission to provide the best possible care for our patients. Every patient is treated in a confidential manner, and every patient has specific rights as described below.

Confidentiality

All staff adheres to the ethical guidelines of their profession and to state and federal laws of confidentiality, thus insuring respect for patients rights and privacy. State laws require that information obtained and maintained by Southwestern in the course of providing services to a patient is confidential and shall be disclosed only with the consent of the patient, except in limited circumstances.

The confidentiality of alcohol and drug abuse records maintained by Southwestern is further protected by federal laws and regulations. Generally we may not disclose any information indicating that you are being seen in association with a drug or alcohol problem or indicate (to anyone outside Southwestern) that you attend a drug or alcohol program unless; you consent in writing, the disclosure is allowed by a court order, or the disclosure is made to medical personnel in a medical emergency or to qualified personnel for research, audit, or program evaluation.

State and federal laws and regulations do not protect information about a crime committed by a patient either at this agency or against any person who works for this agency or about any threat to commit such a crime. State and federal laws and regulations do not protect information about suspected abuse or neglect of a child or endangered adult. This information must be reported under state law to appropriate state or local authorities.

Patient Rights

You have the right to know of and understand any treatment we offer. The agreement for you to receive services must be made in writing by signing a Consent to Treatment form. If you have any questions about your rights as a patient, please ask.

Information about you is kept confidential in accordance with federal and state laws. We believe in preserving your right to quality care and protection from harm, abuse, and neglect. You are entitled to review and have access to a copy of your medical record except in special circumstances, and you have the right to consult private counsel at your own expense.

In residential services, restrictions may be placed on your activities, but you are guaranteed certain rights. You can practice your religion, wear your own clothes, spend your own money, and have access to correspondence, phone calls, and visits.

Rights may be denied or limited in accordance with state laws and regulations. You have a right not to be secluded or restrained except when necessary to prevent danger to yourself or others.

Your rights are important. If you have any questions about your rights, please ask your therapist.

Comments and Complaints

If you are unhappy with the services you are receiving, tell your therapist. Both of you should agree on your treatment goals. If you feel you cannot discuss the matter with your therapist, call Administration (436-4231) or the Consumer Service line operated by the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction (1-800- 901-1133). Your opinion is important to us.

Fees and Insurance

Whether or not you have insurance, you can be treated at Southwestern. Many insurances policies pay for a portion of our fees, but since most do not pay 100% of your treatment costs, you will be expected to pay your share. We will determine your per visit fee during your first appointment. At Southwestern, we will work with you to arrive at a payment plan. One of our account representatives will be happy to answer any questions you have concerning payment for services.

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