Advancing Health Podcast
St. Charles Health System - Behavioral Health Consultant Project
The Behavioral Health Consultant (BHC) project embeds psychologists trained in integrated primary care directly into clinics throughout the region. These providers work with the primary care provider to address mental and emotional issues that can affect a patient's ability to comply with their health care plan.
What is it?
The Behavioral Health Consultant (BHC) project embeds psychologists trained in integrated primary care directly into clinics throughout the region. These providers work with the primary care provider to address mental and emotional issues that can affect a patient's ability to comply with their health care plan.
Who is it for?
High-risk, high-needs patients with one or more chronic health issues (chronic pain, diabetes, etc.).
Why do they do it?
As part of the care team for the primary health conditions, BHC providers are changing the way clinics provide care overall.
Impact
Approximately 3,500 patients have been served within the past 24 months. Working with regional emergency departments (EDs), these providers helped reduce ED usage in high-utilizing populations by more than 50 percent in one year.
Contact: Robin Henderson, PsyD
Director, Behavioral Health Services
Acting Executive Director, Central Oregon Health Council
Telephone: 541-706-2791
E-mail: rhenderson@stcharleshealthcare.org
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