Innovative approach to outpatient care transforms patient experience

Access to behavioral health care is difficult in the US due to a shortage of specialists, leading to long wait times for appointments. To address this, Mercy has partnered with Concert Health for Collaborative Care Management to improve patient access.

In 2021, Mercy started collaborating with Concert Health to offer joint behavioral health care services to patients. This partnership began with a trial in southwest Missouri and has now extended to Arkansas and Oklahoma. Mercy aims to roll out this collaboration across all its communities by the end of 2023.

Concert Health integrates behavioral health experts into the patient’s existing relationship with their primary care provider. Through virtual and telephone visits, behavioral health managers assist patients, while consultative psychiatrists aid primary care physicians in diagnosing and treating conditions like depression and anxiety. The primary care provider continues to oversee treatment with the collaborative support of the behavioral health care team.

Instead of having to wait days or weeks to see a behavioral health specialist, patients can now be enrolled in the Collaborative Care program within 24 to 48 hours.

Mental Health Awareness Month Resources

• Magers Health and Wellness
  • Mental Health Appointments
    • Psychologists, Psychiatrists, and a Counselor
    • Call 417-836-4000 or Stop by the appointment desk at Magers Health and Wellness Center
• Employee Mental Health Resources
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • 988 Crisis Hotline
  • Ask, Listen, Refer
  • Center City Counseling

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