The Integrated Behavioral Health Movement: Where are the Physician Assistants?

Authors

Daniela Garza, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Family medicine/ primary care

Advisor

Dr. Elyse Watkins

Abstract

Primary care has been on the front line of mental health, but with the increase in patient demands, many primary care providers (PCPs) have relied on prescribed medication to address these needs. About twenty years ago the Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) and Primary Care Behavioral Health (PCBH) models were formed which have Behavioral Health Consultants (BHCs) work alongside PCPs as a team to improve patient care and success when dealing with a mental health diagnosis. PCPs not only include physicians but also mid-level providers as well, with this paper focusing on physician assistants (PAs), who make up a significant portion of the PCP workforce. Three commonly used databases were used to find literature and/ or studies on IBH or PCBH and PA training or education, however no articles were found that met criteria. The results of no studies being found provides PAs with an opportunity to work towards eliminating this important gap.

Recommended Citation

Garza D. The Integrated Behavioral Health Movement: Where are the Physician Assistants?. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2020; 2(4).