The JHH Community Psychiatric Program – Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) is a comprehensive mental health service provided by the Johns Hopkins Hospital, specifically designed for adults with major mental illnesses who are unable to participate in traditional clinic settings. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, this program aims to deliver care directly to patients in their homes or community settings, ensuring they receive the support and treatment they need.
Location and Address
Address: 600 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21287
The facility is situated in the heart of Baltimore, near the intersection of North Caroline Street and East Fayette Street.The primary purpose of the ACT program is to provide intensive, community-based psychiatric services to adults with severe mental illnesses, enabling them to live independently and manage their conditions effectively.
Main Services and Target Population
The ACT program offers a range of services tailored for adults with major mental illnesses, including medication management, supportive individual and group psychotherapy, and case management. The program is designed to serve individuals who are unable to participate in traditional clinic settings, ensuring they receive comprehensive care in their own environments. A unique feature of this program is its ability to provide services in the patient’s home or community settings, enhancing accessibility and compliance.
Key Services and Programs List
Assertive Community Treatment (ACT)
ACT services are delivered by a multidisciplinary team consisting of nurses, therapists, case managers, attending psychiatrists, and psychiatric resident physicians. These services include medication management, supportive individual and group psychotherapy, and case management, all provided in the patient’s home or community settings.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Although not exclusively part of the ACT program, the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is another service offered by the Community Psychiatry Program. It provides intensive treatment for patients who need more support than regular outpatient visits can offer. This includes group therapy sessions influenced by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness.
Mobile Treatment
The Mobile Treatment Program serves adults with serious and persistent mental illnesses who have difficulty engaging in traditional outpatient services. This program provides psychiatric services in the patient’s home, aiming to reduce hospitalizations and improve treatment compliance.
Case Management
The Adult Case Management Program coordinates and manages mental health services for individuals in the East Baltimore community. Case managers assist clients in accessing community services, procuring entitlements, and maintaining independent living.
Levels of Care
Outpatient
The ACT program is primarily an outpatient service, delivering care directly to patients in their homes or community settings.
Intensive Outpatient
While not part of the ACT program itself, the Community Psychiatry Program offers an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for patients requiring more intensive support.
Staff and Expertise
Key Staff Members
The program is led by a team of experienced professionals, including attending psychiatrists, psychiatric resident physicians, nurses, therapists, and case managers. The Community Psychiatry Program at Johns Hopkins is directed by Bernadette Cullen, MB, BCh, BAO, MRCPsych.
Specialties Available
The staff includes specialists in psychiatry, nursing, and social work, ensuring a comprehensive approach to patient care.
Treatment Approach
Philosophy: The ACT program is based on a community-based treatment philosophy, focusing on delivering care in the patient’s natural environment to enhance accessibility and compliance.
Treatment Modalities: The program uses evidence-based practices, including medication management, supportive individual and group psychotherapy, and case management. The Intensive Outpatient Program incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness.
Unique Features
Community-Based Care: A distinctive aspect of the ACT program is its community-based approach, providing services directly in the patient’s home or community settings. This approach helps in reducing hospitalizations and improving treatment adherence.
Comprehensive Support: The program offers a holistic approach to care, including medication management, psychotherapy, and case management, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs.
Accreditations and Quality Measures
Financial Aid
The program does not deny services based on inability to pay. Individuals can apply for financial aid through the hospital, which can cover the cost of care up to 100% for eligible individuals.
Insurance
Various insurances are accepted, including Medical Assistance, Medicare, and some private insurance. Insurance coverage is verified prior to scheduling an intake.
Admission Process and Insurance
Admission Process
To make a referral or schedule an intake appointment, individuals can contact the program directly. For ACT services, call 410-955-5212.
Insurance Accepted
The program accepts Medical Assistance, Medicare, and some private insurance. Insurance coverage is verified prior to scheduling an intake.
Contact Information
For inquiries, call 410-955-5212 for ACT services or 410-550-1933 for the Intensive Outpatient Program.
