The Collaborative Care model is a method of behavioral health integration that has been shown to improve patient health outcomes, reduce health care costs and reduce the stigma associated with getting mental health treatment.  A Collaborative Care team is led by a primary care provider (PCP) and includes care managers, psychiatrists, and frequently other mental health professionals who work towards facilitating a collaboratively developed treatment plan based on evidence-based practice guidelines, and focuses particular attention on patients who are struggling with managing their mental illness.  The psychiatrist may or may not see the patients directly but provide guidance either with the PCP directly or via the care manager.  If your primary care practice is interested in learning more, please contact us at (919) 803-6320 or contact us here.