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Nicotera Joins Rome Memorial Hospital’s Senior Behavioral Health Unit
ROME November 21, 2002-- Steven Nicotera has joined Rome Memorial Hospital’s Senior Behavioral Health Unit (SBHU) as community education manager. Nicotera is responsible for sharing information about the program with nursing homes, outpatient clinics, human service agencies, home health care agencies, area physicians, medical groups, and hospitals in Herkimer, Oneida, Madison and Onondaga counties.
Located on the 2nd floor of the hospital, the 11-bed SBHU treats seniors suffering from mental health disorders, such as depression. SBHU is a secured therapeutic environment that provides short-term treatment for patients who are exhibiting behaviors that could harm themselves or others.
“My main goal is to educate healthcare providers and the community about the services offered by the Senior Behavioral Health Unit. I want to see the program thrive because it’s such a valuable service,” Nicotera said. “Approximately 20% of people 65 and older experience mental health problems that are not part of normal aging.”
“Steve’s previous job experience and education has found a place in his job as community education manager, enabling him to do his job well,” said Unit Director Jeannie Blankenship. “We were very pleased to have him join our team.” Nicotera previously worked for four years with the developmentally disabled population at the ARC of Oneida-Lewis County as a vocational rehabilitation counselor. He also has experience in case management and counseling, through positions he has held with Family Services and the Neighborhood Center of Utica.
Nicotera earned a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from Hartwick College, Oneonta and a master of science degree in health administration from the New School University’s satellite campus at Utica College.
“My biggest challenge is to overcome the stigma that lies with this type of health unit,” he said. “But in the Utica/Rome area—where there is a large senior population—this unit can provide hope and healing to seniors in crisis,” said Nicotera. In addition to serving as a liaison to healthcare providers, he is also involved in educating staff about the SBHU and attending health fairs where he can introduce SBHU and its benefits.
Since Nicotera joined the SBHU’s staff, the unit has experienced a significant increase in the number of patients according to Blankenship. “The program was greatly needed in this area. Now that people know that it is available and its specialized to meet the unique needs of seniors, they are using our services to reconnect with their lives.”
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