Lessons learned from a colocation model using psychiatrists in urban primary care settings.

OBJECTIVES

Comorbid psychiatric illness has been identified as a major driver of health care costs. The colocation of psychiatrists in primary care practices has been proposed as a model to improve mental health and medical care as well as a model to reduce health care costs.

METHODS

Financial models were developed to determine the sustainability of colocation.

RESULTS

We found that the population studied had substantial psychiatric and medical burdens, and multiple practice logistical issues were identified.

CONCLUSION

The providers found the experience highly rewarding and colocation was financially sustainable under certain conditions. The colocation model was effective in identifying and treating psychiatric comorbidities.