Nemours Children's Health has announced a $250,000 donation from CSX to address the increasing demand for pediatric behavioral health services. This funding will expand services to reach underinsured children across North Florida, with a particular focus on the underinsured and hard-to-reach families who may not have access to other resources.
The donation benefits the Pediatric Acute Telemental Health (PATH) program which provides video visits to North Florida area families with children ages 2 to 17 for mental health issues including ADHD, behavior problems, depression and anxiety.
In recent years, there has been a notable rise in mental health issues among children. Significant barriers, such as high costs and a shortage of providers, combined with increased demand, often result in wait times of six months or more for mental health services.
Founded in 2023, PATH offers children short term care with a licensed mental health provider within a week. The team of professionals provides assessment and treatment recommendations, crisis intervention, referrals and brief treatment options.
“We are deeply grateful to CSX for their generous gift to support our telemental health program,” said R. Lawrence Moss, MD, president and CEO of Nemours Children’s Health. “Mental health challenges are rising among young people, and we want to do everything in our power to get kids the help they need as quickly as possible. This investment will help Nemours support more children across North Florida, particularly those who face barriers to in-person care.”
A PATH appointment is a face-to-face video visit with a mental health professional. Children do not have to be a patient of Nemours Children’s to access the program. PATH offers extended hours for appointments, as well as Saturday appointment times. PATH hours are Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, and every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. A visit can cost as little as $0 or a copay, depending on insurance coverage of telehealth services.
“CSX is committed to strengthening the communities where we live and work -- especially right here in our home of Jacksonville,” said Joe Hinrichs, president and chief executive officer of CSX. “Partnering with Nemours Children’s Health helps ensure that children and families in our community have the vital resources and access they need for high-quality care when they need it most.”
To schedule an appointment:
