Mental health integration: normalizing team care

Abstract

This article examines the impact of integrating mental health into primary health care. Mental Health Integration (MHI) within Intermountain Healthcare has changed the culture of primary health care by standardizing a team-based care process that includes mental health as a normal part of the routine medical encounter. Using a quantitative statistical analysis of qualitative reports (mixed methods study), the study reports on health outcomes associated with MHI for patients and staff. Researchers interviewed 59 patients and 50 staff to evaluate the impact of MHI on depression care. Patients receiving MHI reported an improved relationship with caregivers (P < .001) and improved overall functioning in their lives (P < .01). Staff providing care in MHI reported that patients experienced improved access to mental health care, improved overall patient productivity in daily functions (P < .01), and access to team care (P < .001). As MHI became routine, patients discussed complementary team interventions more frequently (P < .0001). Mental health problems rank second in chronic disease today. MHI offers promising results for improving the quality and cost of effective treatment for chronic disease. This research provides guidelines for organizing mental health care, staff productivity, and patient satisfaction, using a team approach to improve outcomes.

Keywords: depression; integration; mental health; primary care; standardization; team care.