Relation of behavioral health to quality health care.

Primary health care provided by an integrated treatment team (e.g., physician, nurse, behavioral health specialist) is becoming increasingly common. This article provides background on integrated care, offers a description of the breadth of behavioral health, and notes institutions such as the Veterans Health Administration in which behavioral health is utilized. We also propose that behavioral health contributes to quality health care and is part of best practices, even as it is provided in a practical and cost-effective way within a medical center primary care setting.