Creating Connections: An Early Look at the Integration of Behavioral Health and Primary Care in Accountable Care Organizations

• Published in: Policy File 2014
• Main Authors: Tierney, Katherine, Saunders, Aleen, Lewis, Valerie
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Subjects: Health care policy; The Commonwealth Fund

Individuals with mental illness are among the highest need, costliest patients in the U.S. health care system, yet they receive inadequate behavioral health care. Researchers have proposed various models that integrate behavioral health with primary care. These approaches have the capacity to improve patient care and outcomes in terms of both physical and behavioral health. However, implementing integration models under traditional fee-for-service payment structures presents significant challenges. Emerging payment models -- like accountable care organizations (ACOs) -- may allow for more coordinated care, including integrated behavioral and physical health care. ACOs are groups of providers held accountable for the quality and total cost of care of a defined patient population. Under the model, groups of providers receive modified reimbursements that offer incentives to reduce costs and improve care. This report explores how ACOs are approaching the integration of behavioral health into primary care by showcasing two models of behavioral health and primary care integration.