Bright idea: Integrating behavioral health with primary care
Why are more primary care practices providing behavioral health services?
Depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions affect millions of Americans. In fact, the Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Index SM finds that mood disorders have a greater impact on health than any other condition. Mental health problems can be debilitating, preventing people from fully participating in work, school and family life.
For decades, treatment for mental health conditions was separate from treatment for other forms of illness, a segregated approach that stigmatized those who suffer from behavioral and mood disorders, and left too many without access to appropriate care.
Offering behavioral health services through primary care practices changes that equation.
It makes it easier for patients to see a psychiatrist or psychologist, obtain psychiatric medications or engage in talk therapy. It also helps remove the stigma around seeking care for mental health issues. And it enables primary care doctors and mental health practitioners to coordinate well-rounded treatment plans for patients, addressing their health needs holistically to achieve better outcomes.