Rockcastle Regional Receives Quality Award for Behavioral Health Initiative

Rockcastle Regional Hospital and Respiratory Care Center has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to community health by winning the Kentucky Hospital Association’s (KHA) prestigious Quality Award. This marks the 14th time the hospital has received this honor, highlighting its continued excellence in healthcare quality and community engagement.

The award recognizes Rockcastle Regional’s innovative partnership with Rockcastle County Schools to address behavioral health issues among K-12 students. This collaboration has been pivotal in promoting mental health awareness, early intervention, and providing essential support services to students.

“The partnership between Rockcastle Regional and Rockcastle County Schools was initiated to tackle the growing concerns around students’ mental and behavioral health,” said Brandy Bullock, Rockcastle Regional’s Rural Health Clinic Director. “Recognizing the critical impact of mental well-being on academic performance and overall life outcomes, the hospital and school district joined forces to create a comprehensive program that addresses these needs holistically.”

Key Components of the initiative include:

• On-Site Counseling Services: Licensed mental health professionals provide regular counseling sessions at schools, ensuring students have easy access to support.
• Teacher Training: Educators receive training on recognizing signs of behavioral health issues and how to support students in need.
• Parental Involvement: Resources are provided to parents, equipping them with tools to support their children’s mental health at home.
• Early Intervention Programs: Screenings and assessments are conducted to identify at-risk students early and provide timely interventions.

“The initiative has not only improved the mental health of students, but also fostered a supporting and inclusive school environment where every child can thrive,” said Mackenzie George, licensed clinical social worker with Rockcastle Regional’s school-based program. George said the success of this program is a shining example of what can be achieved when healthcare providers and educational institutions work together. “It underscores the importance of community partnerships in creating sustainable, impactful health initiatives.”

“We are honored to be recognized by the Kentucky Hospital Association for our work with Rockcastle County Schools,” said Stephen A. Estes, president and CEO of Rockcastle Regional. “This award is a reflection of our dedicated team’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community, especially our young people. By addressing the behavioral health needs early on, we are helping to pave the way for a brighter future for our students.”