Integrating Mental Health Services into Primary Care

Excerpt

Kroenke and Unutzer’s paper is to be applauded for focusing on the advisability and effectiveness of integrating mental health services into primary care.1 VA has instituted this beneficial, excellent approach; however, some veterans most vulnerable to suicidal ideation prefer to access care outside VA. Healthcare providers rendering care to veterans (whether at VA or non-VA settings) should therefore be aware of this model. It is urgent that private healthcare providers ensure that veterans at increased risk of suicide who receive care at private institutions have access to treatment that integrates mental health services in the setting of primary care. The most vulnerable veterans receiving care at private institutions cannot be allowed to fall through the cracks. …