The mental health care scene in Oklahoma is set to undergo significant changes with the announcement of the construction of the Donahue Behavioral Health Hospital, slated to break ground on the Oklahoma State University Oklahoma City campus in March 2024. This new facility will replace the aging Griffin Memorial Hospital, marking the end of its century-long service as the state's primary mental health hospital.
Located just south of the Oklahoma State University campus, the new hospital is anticipated to provide modern, extensive care for both adults and children struggling with mental health issues. With facilities for 275 adult beds and 55 for adolescents, health officials are optimistic about its potential impact. Heath Hayes, Chief of Communications and Strategic Engagement at the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, stated, "Everybody who is getting services will be able to get access to all the resources Oklahoma City has to offer, and then help people get back to the communities where they live." This indicates not just better facilities but also improved integration with local community resources.
The decision to build this new $147 million hospital arose from both necessity and opportunity. Griffin Memorial, which opened its doors over 70 years ago, has seen significant wear and has, according to Carrie Slatton-Hodges, the commissioner of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, "outlived its functionality." By moving to Oklahoma City, the new facility is expected to bolster local economies, bringing with it about 250 jobs and projecting economic benefits of nearly $448 million within five years.
For years, Griffith Memorial Hospital has been one of the key places for mental health services, but it is now on the verge of closing and selling its 220-acre property. Historical structures like Hope Hall, built back when the facility was known as Central State Hospital before it was rebranded in 1953, will likely make way for new developments as the area undergoes transformation.
Interestingly, the hospital is named after Dr. Hayden Donahue, remembered as Oklahoma’s first director of mental health, who pioneer mental health treatments and who held significant roles during the establishment of various health services throughout the state. Known for launching the psychiatric residency program and creating the state’s first funded comprehensive mental health center, Donahue's legacy continues with this new hospital.
Community engagement seems to be at the heart of this transition. Oklahoma County Commissioners approved $1.5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to help facilitate the move. It's clear they recognized the urgent need for improved mental health infrastructure, especially as mental health issues have surged across the state and the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Meanwhile, local legislators voiced concerns over the relocation's wider impacts. Officials worry about the 350 employees currently at Griffin Memorial and how they will transition to the new facility or if they’ll be left jobless. Rep. Jared Deck emphasized the commitment from local delegations to work alongside the Oklahoma Public Employees Association to safeguard these employees' futures. Ensuring continuity of care during such transitions is critical.
Another significant aspect of the Donahue Behavioral Health hospital's construction is its emphasis on hands-on training for future mental health professionals. Nursing and educational programs at Oklahoma State University will greatly benefit from having this critical facility nearby, promoting practical experience for students who will eventually enter the workforce.
While this transition has sparked worries about the eventual fate of Griffin Memorial and its long-standing community roots, the upgrades and changes on the horizon could lead to enhanced treatment standards for those who rely on mental health services. This move is representative of larger shifts occurring within the healthcare industry, exploring better access and innovative solutions to meet rising demand.