ABSTRACT
In addition to regular routine health care, many patients who present in primary physician offices suffer from psychological and psychosocial problems, which may be impacting their physical health. “The Integrated Service Delivery System,” incorporates state-of-the-art rapid assessment techniques and computer technology, appropriate interventions matched to assessed patient deficits, and coordination and follow-up in providing an innovative and progressive approach to assist the physician in management of patients’ alcohol and substance abuse, mental health and psychological stresses affecting their health. This comprehensive approach to patient management incorporates a bachelors’ level social worker (BSW), with appropriate Master of Science in Social Work (MSSW) supervision, within the physician’s office to provide assessment, crisis management, time limited psychological interventions, and linkage to social agencies and other professionals in the community to address issues related to psychosocial problems impacting physical health. The model is cost-effective and ultimately better meets the patient’s health care needs.
