#United States #Los Angeles #Behavioral Health #Southern California #HASC

Overview of HASC's Behavioral Health Scan

On December 16, 2025, the Hospital Association of Southern California (HASC) unveiled the latest findings from its Comprehensive Behavioral Health Environmental Scan, conducted in collaboration with Health Management Associates (HMA). This report reveals the escalating demand for behavioral health services amidst ongoing system pressures in several Southern Californian counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, and Ventura.

Rising Behavioral Health Needs

The scan indicates a concerning trend: the need for behavioral health services is steadily increasing. Counties reported significant surges in serious mental illnesses, incidences of depression, suicide rates, and opioid-related crises, which are fostering greater strain on hospitals and healthcare providers. Emergency departments are becoming primary access points for individuals facing crises, leading to reports of extended waiting times as hospitals struggle with limited options for step-down and inpatient placements.

Capacity Shortages and Workforce Challenges

One of the critical issues highlighted in the scan is the capacity shortage across the region's facilities. Many counties continue to face a deficit ranging from 20% to 40% in essential psychiatric inpatient beds, alongside deficits in subacute or residential settings. Specific gaps in care are also identified for adolescent, geriatric, and specialized behavioral health services, contributing to the mounting pressure on healthcare systems.

In addition to capacity shortages, there are significant workforce challenges. Hospitals and community organizations are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain qualified professionals such as psychiatrists, behavioral health nurses, and licensed clinical social workers, exacerbating the crisis in care delivery.

Progress and Investments in Behavioral Health

Despite these challenges, the scan does point to various positive developments in the region. Counties and hospitals are taking proactive steps to enhance behavioral health care. For instance, many have launched or expanded crisis stabilization units (CSUs), intensive outpatient programs, and mobile crisis response teams aimed at diverting patients from emergency departments.

Investment in infrastructure is also on the rise, with notable developments such as:

• - New CSU capacity in Orange County.
• - A planned psychiatric health facility in Ventura County.
• - Riverside County's Wellness Village, set to provide integrated inpatient and community-based services starting in 2026.

These initiatives exemplify a community commitment to not only addressing the immediate crisis but also developing sustainable systems of care that meet the growing needs of residents.

Collaborative Efforts for Better Outcomes

George W. Greene, the president and CEO of HASC, emphasized the ongoing efforts by counties and hospitals to address the burgeoning behavioral health needs in Southern California. He remarked, "This scan consolidates regional data and highlights the importance of collaborative efforts to support residents who depend on a robust behavioral health system.”

In order to bolster local planning and enhance information sharing among stakeholders, HASC plans to distribute county-level summaries to boards of supervisors and behavioral health leaders. This will further facilitate ongoing collaboration and strategic planning that aligns with the region’s needs.

About HASC

The Hospital Association of Southern California, established in 1923, operates as a not-for-profit regional trade association. With nearly 170 member hospitals and 30 health systems, HASC is entirely dedicated to improving the operating conditions for hospitals and promoting the health status of the communities it serves. To learn more, visit HASC.