A not-for-profit medical health care provider on the Treasure Coast that has been delivering mental health care support since 1998 is announcing its permanent closure later this month. In a statement posted on the Suncoast Mental Health Center Inc. website, CEO Debra Engle regretfully reveals the inevitable end on February 14th due to financial challenges.

The Closing of Suncoast Mental Health Center

“After consideration and due to financial challenges, we regret to inform you that Suncoast Mental Health Care Inc. will be closing its doors permanently on Feb. 14th,” Engle writes in her letter.

The closure of Suncoast Mental Health Center represents a significant loss to the community. Ann Berner, CEO of Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network, expresses her deep disappointment. “It’s very, very sad and unfortunate, but I wish there was something that we could have done to intervene,” Berner says.

The Network and Its Services

The organization is responsible for all publicly funded behavioral health services in Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network contracts with the Department of Children and Families to secure access to care for adults and children dealing with mental health and substance use.

While Suncoast was not directly contracted with Southeast Florida Behavioral Health Network, the network is still deeply involved in the regional healthcare ecosystem. Berner notes that Suncoast relied heavily on Medicaid funding, which poses significant challenges for organizations economically.

Continuity of Care

Recognizing the need for a seamless transition, providers are stepping in to support the Suncoast staff and patients. “They are having their therapist and case management staff leave with their caseload so that there’s some continuity of care,” Berner explains.

The network has been conducting interviews with staff and planning the handling of medical records. “So, we’ve been conducting interviews with staff, talking about what we are going to do with their medical records,” Berner adds.

The Broader Impact of Mental Health in Florida

This closure underscores the broader challenges facing mental health care in the state. A Forbes study ranks Florida in the bottom five for mental health care metrics, citing high costs and a severe shortage of treatment centers.

Steps for Patients

Officials at Suncoast Mental Health Center strongly advise all clients to contact them as soon as possible to arrange for retrieving medical records. They also encourage patients to seek alternative providers.

The closure of this vital community resource sends a sobering reminder of the need for robust mental health care provision across Florida.

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