Integrating Behavioral Health into Primary Care Settings: A Pilot Project Descriptors: Process and outcome evaluation

ABSTRACT. The integration of behavioral health into the primary care setting provides an opportunity for psychologists to improve care for the treatment of depression. In this study, a pilot program was created integrating psychologists into four medical centers. Results indicated a significant improvement in depressive symptoms and health status, and an improvement in overall antidepressant medication adherence. Physicians were highly satisfied with the integrated program. To guide behavioral health specialists considering work in the primary care setting, a description of the program and a discussion of the lessons learned from the project are provided.