Rutherford Regional Health System hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony this week to celebrate the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), which provides expanded behavioral health services for our community. Members of the community, the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce, and the Town of Rutherfordton Mayor, Jimmy Dancy, joined hospital leadership and staff to welcome this important program.

Although the IOP has been serving patients for nearly a year, the original celebration was postponed due to Hurricane Helene. This week’s event provided a meaningful opportunity to recognize the program’s impact over the past year, highlight available services, and strengthen partnerships with community leaders and organizations.

“Grounded in our mission of making communities healthier, this program demonstrates our ongoing commitment to addressing critical needs in our community,” said Sudandra Ratnasamy, CEO of Rutherford Regional Health System. “Mental health remains one of the most significant health disparities in our community, and increasing access to quality behavioral health services is essential. By offering accessible, evidence-based care, we’re helping patients find the support they need close to home.”

Rutherford Regional’s Intensive Outpatient Program offers structured, evidence-based treatment for adults ages 18 and older who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy or medication management alone. The program serves individuals stepping down from inpatient behavioral health care or those seeking treatment through outpatient services for the first time.

“This program is designed to help patients regain stability, build coping skills, and move forward in their recovery journey,” said Dr. Joseph, the Chief of Psychiatry at Rutherford Regional Medical Center. “We work closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that supports their long-term wellness.”

For more information about Rutherford Regional’s Intensive Outpatient Program, visit MyRutherfordRegional.com/behavioral-health or call 828.286.5000 ext. 4240.