January 26, 2017
Premera conducts an annual provider survey about collaboration between primary care practitioners (PCPs) and behavioral health practitioners (BHPs). While the 2016 survey shows collaboration has improved between these two disciplines, more can be done to improve the exchange of crucial information that benefits patients.
Positive changes
Following a behavioral health referral for treatment, survey results showed an increase in exchange of information. When comparing 2016 with 2015 patient referrals for behavioral healthcare, BHPs that provide summary reports back to the PCPs post-referral increased significantly from 28 percent in 2015 to 34 percent in 2016.
Areas for improvement
There's room for improvement in how often summary reports are sent. PCPs are more likely to receive a summary report back when they refer a patient for in-patient care (56 percent), than to a BHP (34 percent) or an outpatient program (27 percent).
Communication benefits patient care
PCPs stated that summary reports bridge communication gaps. Information most valued by PCPs includes medications, patient treatment and care plans, and diagnosis. We continue to encourage practitioners to improve exchange of information for the health, safety, and well-being of patients.