Mental Health Emergency Zone at Montfort

The Mental Health Emergency Zone (MHEZ) represents an innovative initiative to transform a section of the emergency department into an environment dedicated to the management of mental health crises.


Thanks to a strategic reorganization of the hospital space, this distinct zone makes it possible to establish a new model of care and services specifically for patients in psychological distress.

Substantial positive impacts

The Mental Health Emergency Zone makes it possible to:

Reduce wait times for care

New area of 1,315 sq. ft. allowing for reduced wait times

Enhance safety for both medical staff and patients

The creation of a safe environment in the emergency department will benefit mental health and addiction patients

Provide an environment adapted to specific mental health needs

Improve the service quality to patients

Promote a more efficient and humane response

Reduction in the number of return emergency visits

"I've reached my limit… I've reached the bottom"
- Sofiane

Campaign COMPLETED

Thanks to your generous donations, this new zone has been operational since November 2024, offering adapted and safe care, 24/7.

Your contribution was essential in making this project a reality, bringing hope and support to many patients.

Thank you for your solidarity and commitment!

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$ 2 million

Campaign Goals
Construction start: May 2024
Opening of the MHEZ: Fall 2024

The Establishment of the Mental Health Emergency Zone : A Crucial Need

Hôpital Montfort is located in the Rideau-Vanier neighborhood, an underprivileged area where many residents live in financial and social insecurity with significant mental health challenges.

With over 50,000 annual visits to the emergency department, of which 8% are related to mental health, Montfort positions itself as a key player in addressing mental health needs in the region and beyond.

The arrival of the MHEZ represents a collective transformation of the hospital environment, aimed at better meeting the specific needs of patients in mental crisis.

Montfort is in a unique situation

Montfort’s emergency department receives twice as many visits for mental health reasons as other hospitals in Ottawa and the province.

"The Montfort teams worked hard to try to understand me... "
- Sofiane

Frequent Evaluations in 2023 – 2024

31%

Substance-related disorders

19%

Stress-related neurological disorders

15%

Schizophrenia and delusional disorders

The growing need for mental health care and services has made the Mental Health Emergency Zone a priority.

The MHEZ provides a calm environment, reduces delays and violence in the workplace, and improves the quality of service. Each contribution has led us towards this goal: a mental health service where every patient feels understood and safe.

"At Montfort, they saw something in me that I could no longer see..."
- Sofiane