From Theory to Action: Children's Community Pediatrics Behavioral Health System

Abstract

Integrated health care models attempt to cross the barrier between behavioral and medical worlds in order to improve access to quality care that meets the needs of the whole patient. Unfortunately, the integration of behavioral health and physical health providers in one space is not enough to actually promote integration. There are many models for promoting integration and collaboration within the primary care context. This article uses the experience of the Children's Community Pediatrics Behavioral Health Services system to highlight components of collaboration that should be considered in order to successfully integrate behavioral health within a medical home.

Keywords: Behavioral health workforce; Integrated care; Pediatric behavioral health; Primary care.