Providence to close Spokane psychiatric unit; rally planned in protest

SPOKANE, Wash. – Healthcare workers in Spokane are organizing a rally to protest the closure of the 22-bed adolescent psychiatric unit at Sacred Heart Medical Center.

Providence Health & Services announced on Aug. 28 that the unit will close on Sept. 7.

The rally, scheduled for Sept. 5 at 6 p.m. in Cowley Park, will feature several speakers, including Dr. Coralyn J. Alexander, Craig Kisler, Spokane City Council member Michael Cathcart, Spokane Labor Council President Jim Tieken, Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA) Executive Director David Keepnews and WSNA President Justin Gill. The event will focus on the potential impact of the closure on local families and mental health services.