Meredith Weiss1, Bruce J Schwartz. 1. Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10467, USA. mweiss@montefiore.org
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: Comorbid psychiatric illness has been identified as a major driver of health care costs. The colocation of psychiatrists in primary care practices has been proposed as a model to improve mental health and medical care as well as a model to reduce health care costs. METHODS: Financial models were developed to determine the sustainability of colocation. RESULTS: We found that the population studied had substantial psychiatric and medical burdens, and multiple practice logistical issues were identified. CONCLUSION: The providers found the experience highly rewarding and colocation was financially sustainable under certain conditions. The colocation model was effective in identifying and treating psychiatric comorbidities.
OBJECTIVES: Comorbid psychiatric illness has been identified as a major driver of health care costs. The colocation of psychiatrists in primary care practices has been proposed as a model to improve mental health and medical care as well as a model to reduce health care costs. METHODS: Financial models were developed to determine the sustainability of colocation. RESULTS: We found that the population studied had substantial psychiatric and medical burdens, and multiple practice logistical issues were identified. CONCLUSION: The providers found the experience highly rewarding and colocation was financially sustainable under certain conditions. The colocation model was effective in identifying and treating psychiatric comorbidities.
Entities:
Keywords:
community health; disease management; managed care; prevention; primary care