American Hospital Association Honors Children’s of Alabama Pediatric Access to Telemental Health Services Program

Birmingham, Ala. (August 17, 2026) — Children’s of Alabama Behavioral Health Services Team recently received a prestigious award from the American Hospital Association (AHA). On Wednesday, August 12, the American Hospital Association presented the Pediatric Access to Telemental Health Program (PATHS) with the Dick Davidson NOVA Award. Children’s is one of five hospitals across the nation to receive this honor.

“This award emphasizes a hospital that has made a commitment to communities,” said Margo Harwell, Director of the PATHS Program. “It also further demonstrates that leadership at Children’s of Alabama is committed to making sure communities across our state receive adequate access to behavioral health services.”

The PATHS program was launched in 2019 to address inadequate access to mental health professionals. The program partners with the Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) and the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Since its launch, PATHS has facilitated more than 2,400 consultations with primary care providers across the state. It also connects community agencies, schools, and physician practices with resources and educational opportunities.

“Children’s of Alabama has demonstrated that geography does not have to determine whether a child can receive behavioral health support,” said Rebecca Jolley, Regional Executive, Region 4 American Hospital Association. “Children’s has shown what can happen when clinical expertise, technology, and community partnership come together around the needs of children and families.”

The AHA Dick Davidson NOVA Award recognizes hospitals for their collaborative efforts to improve community health status. The award is named for the late Dick Davidson, who led the AHA as president and CEO for 15 years. It reflects his passion for finding ways for hospitals to collaborate with local organizations and improve health for patients and communities.