Integration of medical and psychological treatment within the primary health care setting

Abstract

Integrated care entails the provision of behavioral health services within the primary care setting and emphasizes a collaborative approach between mental health professionals and primary care providers (Kenkel, Deleon, Orabona Mantell, Steep, 2005). Research was collected to highlight the history, development, and implementation of integrated care within primary care facilities. The authors performed a comprehensive literature review of collaborative care and summarized the program design of the site where they work. It is hypothesized that integration will improve patient access to health care, increase the rate of evidence based practice, improve patient health and satisfaction, and reduce long-term costs.