Pioneer Center expands its walk-in admission hours

With the need for behavioral health services on a constant rise in McHenry County, Pioneer Center is creating ways to allow the public quicker and better access to services.

Starting Monday, March 2, the organization will expand its walk-in admissions hours. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, individuals will be able to visit Pioneer Center's Veterans Parkway location in McHenry at a time most convenient for them - without calling ahead for an appointment. Called "CareNow," this new admissions model is just one step in Pioneer Center's mission to make access to service quicker and easier.

"Since the start of CareNow, 23 individuals have utilized our new walk-in hours. The concept has provided much needed flexibility for people and we are very excited to be able to expand the hours even more," said Danielle La Ha, admissions manager.

During the visit, individuals will fill out admissions paperwork, receive a mental health assessment and an individualized treatment plan. They also will leave with their first appointment with a therapist, psychiatrist or case manager scheduled - or be ready to attend their first group session. Individuals should bring with their Illinois state ID or driver's license, Social Security card, proof of Medicaid, Medicare or insurance, and proof of household income. In addition, to further expedite the process, they are encouraged to fill out and bring with them the admissions forms found at www.pioneercenter.org/needhelp.

The Admissions Office is at Pioneer Center for Community Mental Health at 4100 Veterans Parkway in McHenry. To learn more, call (815) 759-7204 or email GetHelp@pioneercenter.org.