A patient-centered model for the delivery of mental health services to acute psychiatric patients is described. This model may also be applicable to more comprehensive delivery systems. Mental health systems usually are centered around separate staff and physical locations of various units. The psychiatric patient's sensitivity to disruptions of the environment may respond favorably to a system of patient-staff continuity, which avoids fragmentation of care. The patient-centered care model allows the treatment staff to follow patients throughout the entire course of their treatment program. Impressions are that this model results in a marked decrease in acting out, suicide gestures, and other regressive manifestations at the time of transfer from one phase of the program to another. Specific issues of patient care account-ability, patient follow-through, and compliance with treatment recommendations and cost-effectiveness are also discussed. In addition, staff satisfaction and professional growth are enhanced by the ability to follow patients and families through all phases of their treatment. Decreased staff turnover and increased interdisciplinary communication can enhance staff growth as well as patient care.