The Effectiveness of Collaborative Care in Publicly Insured Populations

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services covers the cost of collaborative care for Medicare beneficiaries. However, only 24 states cover the costs of collaborative care in their Medicaid programs despite evidence indicating the cost-effectiveness of delivering behavioral health services in primary care. This study examines benchmark data from a behavioral health medical group embedded within primary care practices across the United States using a large dataset of patients treated in collaborative care. The study explores the effectiveness of collaborative care in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms by comparing Medicare, Medicaid, and privately insured populations, seeking to inform the importance of supporting advocacy for continued Medicaid fee adoption for collaborative care.

Automated summary

Despite evidence showing the cost-effectiveness of delivering behavioral health services in primary care, only 24 states cover the costs of collaborative care in their Medicaid programs. This study analyzes benchmark data from a behavioral health medical group embedded within primary care practices across the United States. By comparing Medicare, Medicaid, and privately insured populations, the study explores the effectiveness of collaborative care in reducing depression and anxiety symptoms, aiming to advocate for continued Medicaid fee adoption.