Behavioral Health Integration with Primary Care at Carolinas HealthCare System
Carolinas HealthCare system is undertaking a major project to integrate behavioral health into every one of the System’s primary care practices. Integrated primary care meets the mental health needs of people with physical disorders, as well as the physical health needs of people with mental disorders. Delivering mental health services in primary care settings compliments Carolinas HealthCare System’s community outreach programs to reduce stigma and discrimination, as patients are generally more comfortable asking for help in this setting versus seeking an appointment with a psychiatrist. As long as primary care physicians have the backup and support they need to deliver excellent behavioral healthcare, this is a recipe for success. Studies show that outcomes for treating mental illness are twice as good in fully ‘integrated’ primary care, particularly when linked to a network of services at a specialty care level and in the community.