For over 50 years CenterPointe has been offering high-quality, evidence-based care for mental health and substance use. In 2020, we expanded our services to include primary care to embrace a whole-health integrated care model. This was a unique approach, as it's common for primary care and behavioral health services to operate separately despite individuals needing care in both areas. According to "Mental Disorders and Medical Comorbidity," approximately 68% of adults with mental illness have at least one physical medical condition, and 29% of adults with a physical medical condition also have a co-occurring mental health illness. According to "World Psychiatry," people with severe mental illness have a life expectancy 10-25 years shorter than the general population, often due to untreated physical health conditions.
Recognizing the impact of co-occurring disorders, the historically fragmented approach to healthcare has led to gaps in care, miscommunication between providers, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes for the individuals served. In addition, individuals with mental health and substance use concerns are at a higher risk for health complications. Those using substances are at higher risk for chronic conditions such as heart disease, liver disease, respiratory problems, diabetes, hepatitis, and cancer. An integrated care model is known to significantly reduce emergency department visits, and individuals are more likely to receive appropriate care when programs are integrated. Individuals often report feeling more supported in managing their health when all areas are addressed.
Acknowledging these challenges, CenterPointe recognized the importance of shifting to an integrated care model, where primary care services are incorporated into the services we provide. Providing these services did not come without challenges and was only possible as a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC).
In 2020, CenterPointe received grant funding to become a CCBHC. At first, CenterPointe established an agreement with a local primary care clinic as a direct referral source for services. Although this was a helpful resource, it continued to create gaps in care. Barriers still existed regarding coordination of care efforts, communication between providers, and keeping individuals established in all services. We quickly recognized the need for a primary care provider in-house, able to offer all services under one roof. Providing primary care services at CenterPointe has allowed us to provide all individuals with a ‘medical home’ and provide truly integrated care. It allows us to improve access to medical care for individuals who had no access or who have otherwise been unable to obtain services for their condition.
CenterPointe offers primary care services to people of all ages, regardless of their ability to pay or where they live. For those without insurance, we provide a sliding fee scale based on income. Everyone in the community is welcome to access primary care services at CenterPointe with no obligation to receive any other behavioral health services.
We focus on caring for young people and recognize the importance of ensuring that students start the school year in good health. We offer school physicals and support, like childhood immunizations to ensure that school-age children are ready for a healthy and successful academic year.
At CenterPointe, we believe that intellectual health is just as important as physical and emotional health. We support the emotional and intellectual development of young people by providing a new book to youth of all ages.
As we continue to emphasize the significance of integrated care, we are making a greater effort to ensure collaboration in care and that we make appropriate referrals. Our primary care provider screens for mental health concerns at every appointment and collaborates closely with other behavioral health providers to ensure that all services are offered and that staff are working towards the same common goal. Our integrated teams have regular meetings, including our primary care provider, to ensure successful communication and reduce any barriers in care.
In the last three years, CenterPointe has expanded its primary care program to include almost 1,000 services per year, reaching about 350 individuals with a diagnosed chronic health condition. Prior to the introduction of these services, only 37.2% of individuals had their own primary care provider. Now, this number has increased by almost 10%, and over 51% have reported visiting a primary care provider in the past 12 months.
We have expanded our services to reach more people who previously lacked access to primary care. Our goal is to provide a safe and comforting environment for individuals to meet their primary care needs and ultimately save lives. Barb is a perfect example of how these additional service offerings have done that.
Barb had been feeling ill for two weeks but didn’t feel comfortable going to the Emergency Room. She had used other services at CenterPointe and knew she could trust the staff, as she had always felt heard and never judged. Barb was seen by our primary care provider, Dr. Buffy, who assessed and diagnosed her with congestive heart failure. After reassurance that CenterPointe would be with her every step of the way, Barb felt comfortable going to the ER. Dr. Buffy checked in regularly with Barb’s Emergency Room physician, who informed her that had Barb not been assessed, she may not have woken up the following day. Barb is doing much better and continues to meet with Dr. Buffy regularly to monitor her heart.
Our primary care facility warmly welcomes new individuals. If you or someone you know needs a healthcare home, we would be honored to have you.
