Our largely separate mental health system has developed in relationship
to a health care system oriented toward specialization and solo practice.
Now the health care system is moving in the direction of primary care and
group and organizational practice. New forms of mental health delivery are
needed to maximize the potential of these new health care programs for
mental health services. The author describes these new integrated programs
which bring mental health providers into the primary health care programs
for direct services as well as consultation. Issues discussed include
mutual roles, changes in services, the referral process, and provider
relationships. The advantages of such integrated programs include decreased
stigma, increased prevention through earlier detection and referral,
increased family orientation, greater coordination of care, and less
duplication.
Abstract Teaser