We look forward—so when you or someone you love is in crisis, care is close, and hope feels possible.

A new 45-bed behavioral health hospital is proposed for Palmer, near Mat-Su Regional Medical Center. The project—led by Mat-Su Regional in partnership with the Mat-Su Health Foundation—is built around a simple but urgent reality: too many Alaskans can't get the mental health care they need, when they need it.

The existing psychiatric unit at Mat-Su Regional is often full. That means patients in crisis are regularly transferred to Anchorage or even out of state—putting more strain on families already under stress. In many cases, the emergency room becomes the only source for care in a mental health crisis, even though it's not equipped for long-term support.

This proposed freestanding behavioral health hospital would help change that. With 27 adult beds and 18 for adolescents, it would bring timely, trauma-informed care closer to home—for families who shouldn't have to choose between urgent help and long-distance travel.

But to make it happen, the project needs approval from the State of Alaska.

Like all major health projects in the state, this one must pass through a Certificate of Need (CON) review. It's a regulatory step designed to make sure new facilities truly meet a community need.

The case is strong. The partners are experienced. But public input can help tip the balance. By submitting a letter of support or sharing your experience, you help demonstrate to decision-makers that this facility has strong community backing.