Garvey Institute funds Innovation Grants focused on AI for behavioral health, community integration after psychiatric hospitalization

Department news | November 20, 2024

The UW Medicine Garvey Institute for Brain Health Solutions is funding ten new projects that will either test innovative ways to apply artificial intelligence for behavioral health, or develop innovations in discharge and community integration after inpatient psychiatric hospitalization.

“Artificial intelligence has the potential to significantly expand the reach and impact of behavioral health interventions, but only if used ethically and responsibly.” said Jürgen Unützer, MD, MPH, MA, Director of the Garvey Institute and Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. “We want to learn how best to use these rapidly evolving tools that will ultimately allow more people to get the care they need.”

“We also know that the successful transition from an inpatient hospitalization to a patient’s community is extremely important for long-term health outcomes, but the process is complex and challenging. We think it is possible to improve the experience for patients, their loved ones, and the workforce.” 
 
Local philanthropists Lynn and Mike Garvey founded the Garvey Institute in 2019 with a $50 million donation to UW Medicine with a goal to fast-track treatments for patients with mental health, addiction and other brain health problems. The new Innovation Grants join 48 projects previously funded by the Garvey Institute to address cognitive aging, trauma, addictions, adolescent and young adult mental health, and to develop new technologies and partnerships aimed at improving brain health.

Faculty and staff involved in the 58 Innovation Grants funded to date come from 11 UW schools and colleges, over 25 departments and divisions, and all three UW campuses. The list of Garvey Institute partners and collaborators shows the Institute’s commitment to further brain health across the University of Washington as well as locally, regionally and nationally.

“I am excited to see how these projects will ‘move the needle’ on finding solutions to some of our community’s most difficult brain health challenges” said Dr. Unützer. 

The funded innovations: