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. 

Allina Health Institutes are at the forefront of the mission, 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 18 locations—including its three largest hospitals, which U.S. News & World Report consistently rates “High Performing” in multiple oncology specialties. 
• Allina Health Brain and Spine Institute – Delivering advanced neurologic and spine care through Givens Brain Tumor Program, three nationally accredited stroke centers and an elite Adult Neurology Residency Program, while earning recognition from Becker’s, Newsweek & U.S. News & World Report.

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.