Delaware County Mobilizes to Maintain Behavioral Health Services Amid Crozer Hospital Closure

In response to the impending closure of Crozer Hospital, Delaware County has swiftly moved to enact contingency plans ensuring the continuation of critical behavioral health services for its residents. Despite Crozer Hospital being on diversion for general medical emergencies, the Crozer-Chester Medical Center will still accept crisis emergencies, including involuntary commitments, until Monday, April 28 at 8 am. "Individuals and entities can still receive full services, including admission, up until that point," the county stated.

The abrupt announcement by Prospect-owned Crozer health system to close the facility has set the county officials to quickly ensure there will be no gap in services for those in need. Details on alternative providers will be disclosed as soon as agreements are in place. The county reassured stakeholders, in a statement obtained by Delaware County's press release, "We recognize the challenge and difficulties that this shortened closure time is bringing, however we will work to ensure all our residents and stakeholders are informed and that services continue seamlessly."

Furthermore, Delaware County has provided resources for those seeking immediate support. The Delaware County Crisis Connection Team (DCCCT) can be reached at 1-855-889-7827 for mobile mental health assistance and crisis outreach services. Additionally, the national line for suicide and crisis support can be accessed by calling “988”. A dedicated Peer Warmline is also available at (855) 464-9342, operated by individuals who are in recovery from mental illness, providing a space for empathic understanding and support. These resources remain available to the community as the county works to finalize new arrangements for service provision.

The Prospect-owned Crozer Health System's decision to shutter its operations has propelled county officials to act proactively, mobilizing resources and securing partnerships quickly to minimize disruption to critical health services. As information on new service providers becomes available, Chester residents are encouraged to follow updates from the county to smoothly transition to these new points of care. "The County will have contracts in place with other providers to pick up those services on Monday, April 28 so that there is no gap in service," the county communicated.