Preparing for Admission

When you call the YNHPH Admissions Office we will provide specific information and answer questions about our admissions policies and procedures. But there is other important information on this website that can help prepare patients before, during and after their stay at the hospital.

This information includes what to bring (and not to bring), and information on our locations, driving directions, parking, interpreters and translation services, billing and insurance. This site offers important information for visitors as well.

Upon admission to an inpatient unit, patients will receive a preliminary assessment focusing on safety needs, receive orientation to the unit and programming, and will be provided with an admission packet with additional information. Patients will then be assigned to a treatment team whose members will oversee the assessment and treatment plan during the hospitalization.

Due to the highly structured nature of the inpatient treatment setting and for patients' safety, meals are initially provided on the unit. Based on patients' safety needs and clinical progression, patients may eventually participate in supervised dining in the hospital cafeteria. Patients may also have opportunities for supervised outdoor time in our courtyard depending on their progress and safety needs.

What to Bring When Admitted to YNHPH

If you are admitted for inpatient care at Yale New Haven Psychiatric Hospital, please follow policies about what to bring — and what not to bring — with you:

• Due to hospital security policies, all items accompanying the patient to the hospital will be examined by patient care staff.
• Limit clothing to what will fit within the standard-size bureaus in your room. Please do not bring any sexually provocative clothing or items with alcohol- or drug-related logos.
• Weapons, potentially dangerous objects, alcohol, illicit drugs and medications are not allowed anywhere in the hospital.
• All electronic devices and equipment must be battery-operated; electrical cords are prohibited.
• Please leave cell phones and all valuables, including jewelry, at home.
• YNHPH is not responsible for damage, loss or theft of belongings. Safes are available on the patient care unit for the storage of any valuables that must accompany the patient.

Overnight Stays and Passes

Due to our patients’ unique safety needs, overnight stays are generally not permitted at YNHPH. If you, a family member or friend need local accommodations, please see the section on lodging. Similarly, overnight passes for patients to leave the hospital are not permitted.

Living Wills and Healthcare Proxies

Living wills and healthcare proxies are legal documents that describe your wishes about the type of medical care you would want to receive if you were unable to make those decisions for yourself. They also allow you to appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions for you. It is always a good idea to discuss your wishes or concerns with your family and physician before hospitalization. For additional information and forms, please call the Yale New Haven Hospital Admissions Office at 203-688-2221.