The Department of Psychiatry at Bellevue is one of the most respected in the country, and was recognized in 2004 by U.S. News and World Report as one of the“Best Hospitals for Psychiatry.” The Division of Psychiatric Emergency Services has operated a Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) for over 12 years, and is renowned for its clinical and academic excellence. Our CPEP is also a crucial component of a nationally regarded emergency department that is a core Emergency Medical Service (EMS) destination and Level I Trauma Center.

CPEP has over 8,000 visits a year and contains triage, evaluation, and admission services, delivered by a diverse complement of medical, psychology, nursing, social work, and clerical staff. It contains six extended observation beds for observation and treatment up to 72 hours. It also conatins an Interim Crisis Clinic, to assist released patients with crisis resolution and engagement in community services. A Mobile Crisis Unit is available to deliver services to those unable to receive services in the ED, and there is a Crisis Residence for emergency supportive housing.

Our patients' median age is 38, with half between 29 and 46. Three quarters are male, and one quarter female. Forty percent are black, 25% white, 25% Latino, and 5% Asian. Forty-?ve percent are homeless, and 20% employed. About 30% are brought to us by EMS, 20% under arrest by the NYPD, 20% by family, friends, or treatment professionals, and 30% present on their own.

Our patients have a high degree of illness and comorbidity, with 60% psychotic, 50% depressed or manic, 60% abusing alcohol or drugs, 15% with serious personality disorders, and 5% with significant cognitive impairment.