Motorcycles Head to Eastern Minnesota to Promote Mental Health for United Hospital

ST. PAUL, Minn.--Aug. 27, 2005--In an effort to promote the growing need of behavioral health services in Minnesota, United Hospital in St. Paul has announced its first "Ride To Promote Mental Health," a day-long motorcycle ride that is expected to attract cycle enthusiasts from across Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The "Ride To Promote Mental Health" starts in St. Paul on Saturday, Aug 27, 2005. More than 200 participants are expected to head to Welch, ride through Red Wing, then Wabasha and end up in Prescott, Wisconsin. The event is already getting heavy support from local communities and motorcycle enthusiasts from across the Twin Cities.

"Providing high quality behavioral health care can be financially challenging," said Susan Tabor, director, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services, United Hospital. "We strongly believe with a greater understanding of the work and services being provided, the community can gain a new level of appreciation for the work that's being done for a vulnerable population. This is a great way to promote our health services and enjoy the scenery along the way!"

Behavior Health Services of United Hospital provides both inpatient and outpatient services for adolescents, adults and seniors in need of treatment for mental health. This includes screening, treatment, education, counseling, diagnosis and follow-up care.

William Finney, former Police Chief of the City of St. Paul, will lead the ride, along with other Twin Cities representatives. Registration and line-up begins at 10 a.m. Aug. 27, 2005 in Parking Lot E, east of United Hospital on Smith Avenue and Chestnut Street. The cost is $50 per rider, $25 per guest or passenger.

United Hospital, the largest hospital in the Twin Cities east metro area, is a not-for-profit hospital providing a full range of health care services to more than 160,000 people each year. United offers a wide range of health services including a birth center, cardiac care in the John Nasseff Heart Hospital, emergency care, oncology, orthopedics, neurosciences and epilepsy, a pain center, rehabilitation, medical imaging and surgery. More information about the hospital, which is part of Allina Hospitals & Clinics, can be found on the Internet at www.unitedhospital.com.

Minneapolis-based Allina Hospitals & Clinics is a not-for-profit, health care organization serving communities throughout Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. Allina owns and operates 11 hospitals, 65 clinics, home care and hospice services, oxygen and equipment, pharmacies, and emergency medical transportation services. Allina Hospitals & Clinics can be found online at www.allina.com.