MHI Community Connections

Primary care offices are the first stop for many patients struggling with mental or behavioral health issues go to primary care offices. Do clinicians feel confident in treating them?  Will they be able to get the care they need after referral?

Over 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental or behavioral health condition and primary care has become the predominant place for patients to seek treatment, handling up to half of all mental health care. Integrated Behavioral Health (IBH) is often seen as the answer, but with staffing shortages, workflow challenges, and financial barriers, does it truly work? Is it worth the investment?

These are the questions we must address to better understand how behavioral health treatment can effectively integrate with primary care to tackle the growing mental health crisis in America. On July 23rd, Community Connections will bring together clinicians, health systems, plans, and purchasers to explore what it takes to build an effective, sustainable IBH model. We will dive into research and real-world case studies examining strategies for improving patient outcomes.

Join us on July 23rd as we chart a path to better behavioral health care in St. Louis.

The Midwest Health Initiative is convening local practicing clinicians, health care purchasers, health plans, medical group, and other community leaders to learn together and discuss ways to advance primary care in St. Louis. Community Connections is an event series designed for the region’s health care stakeholders to build relationships and exchange perspectives, while amplifying the voice of primary care clinicians to community leaders. Each event focuses on a timely topic related to primary care where attendees learn from an expert in the field and hear perspectives from community members.

Community Connections is an invite-only event with limited space. Invitees must confirm their registration and reserve their spot by filling out the registration form below. Individuals who wish to attend Community Connections but did not receive an invitation may request an invite by filling out the registration form below.