United States Department of Veterans Affairs
Primary Care Program Office

Mental Health Integration — Implementation

Integrated care can be administered either by primary care providers who are given appropriate support, or by collaborating behavioral health providers based in primary care.  These types of arrangements can promote patient engagement in and adherence to treatment, avoid stigmatization, and allow providers to coordinate care for mental health problems and other medical conditions.

Integrated Care Principles

  • Evidence-based
  • Patient-centered around disease education and treatment preferences
  • Flexible and convenient interactions
  • Teamwork and follow-up
  • Customizable models blending structure and process to:  provide accessible care for diverse needs, integrate available clinics and resources, and innovate