Integrating primary care into a community mental health center
The Journal of Family Practice. 2021 April;70(3):137-139 | 10.12788/jfp.0173
April 8, 2021|The Journal of Family Practice
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Our initiation of a reverse-integration practice model revealed numerous advantages and rewards, as well as many challenges, for which we found solutions.
Mr. C now calls the CMHC nurse every few weeks to report his blood sugar levels, have his insulin dose adjusted, or just say “hello.” He continues to see his psychiatrist every month and his family physician every 4 months. The team collaborates as issues arise. His diabetes has been well controlled for more than 3 years.
The IBH clinic has grown in number of patients and family medicine providers, is self-sustaining, and has expanded services to include hepatitis C treatment.
