If you or someone you know needs help with a personal or psychiatric crisis, call the Acute Community Crisis Evaluation Service System (ACCESS) at (603) 577-2728, or come directly to the Emergency Department. Staffed by mental health clinicians, ACCESS provides crisis evaluations, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. After an evaluation, a referral will be made to the most appropriate services, including outpatient services, partial or inpatient hospitalization. Since our inception in 1994, the ACCESS Team has provided crisis evaluations to all age groups, but primarily serves adults.

What is an ACCESS evaluation?
ACCESS receives referrals from many sources, including police, courts, community mental health centers, private therapists, and psychiatrists. The evaluation process includes an examination by an Emergency Department provider who may be a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant as well as laboratory tests if necessary. A crisis evaluation by a member of the ACCESS team will then take place.

How long will it take to be seen? How much does it cost?
It is important to note that an ACCESS visit is an Emergency Department (ED) visit, where you are seen in order of your need, as assessed by the triage nurse. Depending on the number of patients in the ED, your wait for services may be lengthy. Charges include the services of the ED provider, the ED visit charge, any tests ordered, and the ACCESS assessment. The ED will never turn anyone away for inability to pay but if you are insured, your health care plan will determine how much of the cost will be your responsibility.

Will a minor be admitted after a referral?
The inpatient Behavioral Health unit serves primarily an adult population. Minors who require a hospital admission always require transfer to another facility. In New Hampshire, Hampstead Hospital in Hampstead and Cheshire Hospital in Keene admit minors for voluntary treatment. Often referring directly to the hospital where the services will be provided will eliminate some unnecessary waiting time and transportation and hospital costs for the family.

Can ACCESS “clear” someone for return to work or school?
We are frequently asked to provide “a return to work or school” note. While we provide a crisis evaluation, we are not able to issue a return to school/work note that would address future safety.  Upon discharge from the ED, you are given referral information appropriate to your situation. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian or adult patient to obtain follow-up care as recommended. We cannot provide longer term assurances that a patient is ready to return to work or classroom or that follow-up care will take place.

We are always more than happy to explain our services. Please feel free to call at (603) 577-2728 if you have any questions.