RiverValley Behavioral Health Children’s Hospital has received a 2026 Quality Award from the Kentucky Hospital Association for the organization’s BIRCH Program, a specialized treatment program designed to help high-acuity youth stabilize and transition to less restrictive care.
The honor — awarded in the psychiatric hospitals category — marks the first time the Owensboro facility has received the statewide recognition.
Association reviewers said the BIRCH Program demonstrated innovation, measurable outcomes, and a commitment to advancing behavioral health services in Kentucky, according to a release about the honor.
“Receiving this recognition is an incredible honor and a moment of pride for our entire team,” said Katie Demko-Day, administrator of RiverValley Behavioral Health Children’s Hospital. “Since opening The BIRCH in August 2024, we’ve seen youth who once faced repeated placement challenges successfully transition to less restrictive levels of care with greater stability and hope. This award affirms that when we work together with clarity and commitment, we can raise the standard of care and strengthen Kentucky’s behavioral health system for the youth who depend on it.”
The BIRCH Program is a specialized long-term treatment program for high-acuity youth. Developed in partnership with and funded by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, the program is the first of its kind in Kentucky and serves male adolescents ages 12-17 who require 6-9 months of intensive, trauma-informed treatment.
RVBH officials said the program is designed for youth who have struggled in previous placements or experienced repeated crises, helping them build stability and transition to less restrictive levels of care.
RVBH President and CEO Dr. Wanda Figueroa-Peralta said the recognition reflects the impact of the program on patients and families.
“This award represents the young people who have found healing, the families who have found renewed hope, and the dedicated professionals who make this work possible every day,” Figueroa-Peralta said. “It underscores RVBH’s leadership in advancing behavioral health care across Kentucky through strong infrastructure, meaningful collaboration, and a shared commitment to raising the standard of behavioral healthcare.”
RiverValley Behavioral Health Children’s Hospital will be formally recognized during the KHA Quality Conference on March 23 at the Louisville Marriott East.
