Lessons Learned From a Colocation Model Using Psychiatrists in Urban Primary Care Settings. (July 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Weiss, Meredith; Schwartz, Bruce J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of primary care & community health. Volume 4:Number 3(2013)
• Page Start: 228
• Page End: 234
• Publication Date: 2013-07
• Subjects: community health -- disease management -- managed care -- prevention -- primary care; Primary health care -- Periodicals; Primary health care -- United States -- Periodicals; Community health services -- Periodicals; Community health services -- United States -- Periodicals; 362.12
• DOI: 10.1177/2150131912468449
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2150-1319

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.