Allina Health’s United Hospital updates mental health unit to create more welcoming spaces

Allina Health has completed a two-year project to update areas of the inpatient adult and adolescent mental health units at United Hospital in St. Paul. The United Hospital Foundation (now part of the Allina Health Foundation) funded the updates which include converting outpatient spaces to shared areas for recreation and exercise, consult spaces and a sensory room for adults and adolescents. The areas also received an esthetic refresh with vibrant colors and artwork depicting nature.  

“At Allina Health, we believe in Whole Person Care and these updates focus on creating a healing environment that is bright and welcoming,” said Mary Beth Lardizabal, DO, vice president, Allina Health Mental Health and Addiction. “The inviting appearance of the spaces may contribute to well-being, as do the purposes of the rooms. For example, exercise and recreation activities can have profound impacts on mental health. We are grateful to now have these beneficial offerings for our patients.”  

Allina Health is a nonprofit health care system serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin, dedicated to preventing and treating illness and improving the health of individuals, families, and communities. Through a network of more than 90 clinics, 12 hospital campuses, 13 retail pharmacies, specialty care centers, home care, and emergency medical transportation, Allina Health provides high-quality care from birth through end-of-life.  

At the forefront of Allina Health’s mission are its Institutes, which offer nationally recognized experts and advanced care in key specialties:  

• Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute – A leader in cardiovascular innovation, research, and care delivery through clinical trials, publications, and training 4,000+ providers annually, it is consistently rated ‘High Performing’ by U.S. News & World Report.  
• Allina Health Cancer Institute – Providing comprehensive, personalized and innovative oncology care across the full cancer journey, delivered at ten locations – including its three largest hospitals which U.S. News & World Report consistently rates “High Performing” in multiple oncology specialties.  
• Allina Health Neuroscience, Spine and Pain Institute – Offering advanced neurological and spine care, including two nationally accredited stroke centers, innovative focused ultrasound treatment for essential tremor and tremor-dominant Parkinson's and a chronic pain rehabilitation program – one of only two in Minnesota.  

Together, these Institutes exemplify Allina Health’s commitment to clinical excellence, innovation, and compassionate care. Learn more at allinahealth.org and join us on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.