Behavioral Health Integration in Primary Care
Behavioral health integration in a primary care setting means providing mental and emotional health support as part of a child’s regular medical care, with providers working together as one team in the same place.
Behavioral health integration builds on the co‑location of mental health therapists in primary care practices by providing tools and workflows that support a collaborative, team‑based approach. This teamwork helps address the behavioral health needs of children and teens while supporting their overall health.
Improved access to care
Care is provided where families already receive medical services, making it easier to get help. This approach reduces barriers such as transportation challenges, long wait times, and concerns about stigma.
Whole‑child care
Behavioral health and physical health are closely connected. Emotional and behavioral concerns affect medical conditions, and treating mental health needs support a child’s overall health and well‑being.
Earlier identification and support
Routine screening and easy access to behavioral health services help care teams identify concerns early. This allows children to receive brief, effective support before symptoms become more serious.
Reduced stigma
When behavioral health care is part of routine medical care, families may feel more comfortable seeking support. Receiving care in a familiar setting with a trusted team helps normalize mental health treatment.
Improved outcomes
Integrated behavioral health care has been shown to improve symptoms of conditions such as anxiety and depression. It can also help support appropriate medication use when needed.
Stronger care coordination
Care team members communicate regularly and work toward shared treatment goals. Teams are also better able to connect families with helpful services in the community.
Increased provider satisfaction
Medical providers benefit from real‑time consultation with behavioral health professionals and shared responsibility for patients with complex needs. Team‑based care can reduce provider stress and burnout.
Behavioral Health Integration in primary care at Akron Children’s is guided by the TABBICAT™ model, an evidence‑based and standardized approach that supports comprehensive behavioral health care within primary care settings.
The TABBICAT™ model incorporates core tools designed to improve care delivery and the overall experience for families, providers, and therapists. These tools include:
- Warm hand‑offs: Brief, same‑day appointments that allow children and families to meet with a behavioral health provider right away
- Behavioral health care coordinators: Team members who support families and providers by helping streamline access to behavioral health services. Care Coordination is provided at no charge to patients of an Akron Children's primary care location.
What TABBICAT™ Stands For
- Triage
- Assessment
- Brief Behavioral Intervention
- Care Coordination
- Tracking
